Mr. Speaker, today, social workers from across Canada are gathered in Ottawa to celebrate the profession and mark 100 years of the Canadian Association of Social Workers. Having worked in the field myself before entering politics, I fully appreciate the vital role that social workers play in supporting the delivery of health and social services in our communities, to our families and among the most vulnerable. At a time when Canada continues to face overlapping social, economic and public health challenges, the role of social workers has never been more crucial.
Throughout 2026, CASW and its 11 provincial and territorial partners will celebrate the centennial with the theme “Reflecting on Our Past, Reimagining Our Future”. This theme is intended to guide the profession as it reflects on the evolution of social work, uplifts the voices of leadership shaping the profession today and envisions the next 100 years grounded in equity and reconciliation.
Please join me in celebrating social workers and the next 100 years of the profession in Canada.