Mr. Speaker, yesterday, like millions of dads around the world, I grabbed my toddler, handed her a gift and card, and told her to give them to her mommy for Mother's Day. She happily claimed credit for the gift, and received her mother's hug in response.
For at least one day each year, mothers are the centre of attention, but a good question to ask is, what is the value of mothers in society? For some, being just a mother is unimportant. It does not have the glamour or prestige of other roles. It is argued that to replace the role of a mother, it just takes someone, anyone, who cares. However, the history of society and our own personal experiences argue for a different conclusion. Mothers provide the foundational education, nurturing, and love that all people need. They are unique, different, and special, and no one should be denied a mother. The special role of motherhood should not be denied by our governments or by our societies.
I wish my mother, my wife—the mom of my little one—and all mothers across Canada a happy Mother's Day.