Great Canadian Debate PDF

Round 1 : Jean Lesage = The Lesage government brought transformative changes to Quebec society, focusing on modernization, and economic autonomy. It reduced the Catholic Church’s influence in education and healthcare, nationalized electricity companies to expand Hydro-Québec, and strengthened cont...

Round 1 : Jean Lesage = The Lesage government brought transformative changes to Quebec society, focusing on modernization, and economic autonomy. It reduced the Catholic Church’s influence in education and healthcare, nationalized electricity companies to expand Hydro-Québec, and strengthened control over natural resources. Major reforms included the creation of a public healthcare system, expansion of public education with a Ministry of Education, and improved labor and pension protections for workers and retirees. Source = https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jean_Lesage Lee Maracle = Lee Maracle, an award-winning writer and esteemed mentor, is renowned for her powerful writing and lifelong advocacy against Indigenous oppression in Canada Through her work, Maracle sheds light on the experiences of Indigenous women within the context of North American feminism, emphasizing her approach of “decolonizing in the feminine.” Her work “ Bobbie Lee : Indian Rebel” holds a historical significance as one of the first indigenous book publishers in canada. Source = https://www.museumoftoronto.com/collection/lee-maracle/ Ryan Reynold = In addition to his work on screen, the Canadian government also recognized his support of Canadian causes, including Water First Education, Covenant House Vancouver and Sick Kids Foundation. Ryan Reynolds in June 2024. Source = https://people.com/ryan-reynolds-proud-after-receiving-order-of-canada-honor-exclusive-876 4725#:~:text=In%20 addition%20to%20his%20work,Ryan%20 Reynolds%20in%20 June%202024. Alex Trebek = Alex Trebek was a lifelong supporter of geography education and making Canada better known to the world. Trebek began his career at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), where he hosted programs such as "Music Hop" (1963–64) and the popular quiz show "Reach for the Top" (1966–73), which tested high school students' knowledge on various subjects. He donated $5 million in 2016 to establish the Alex Trebek Forum for Dialogue, aiming to expose students to diverse perspectives through public panels and lectures. Trebek donated $100,000 to support this national student competition Source = https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/alex-trebek?utm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Trebek?utm_ Meik Wire : Canadian professional golfer celebrated for his significant achievements in the sport. He established The Mike Weir Foundation in 2004, focusing on helping children and youth in need The foundation shifted its attention to raising awareness about mental health among youth aged 12-25 and successfully launched the Weir Active initiative in 2023 Source = https://mikeweir.com/?utm_ Round 2 : Roberta Bondr = Became the first Canadian woman astronaut to be sent into space. Has made significant contributions to Canada as a neurologist, astronaut, educator, and photographer. Bondar has been a pioneer in space medicine research, leading an international team that collaborated with NASA for over a decade. Also recognized for her dedication to education and the environment Source = https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/roberta-bondar?utm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roberta_Bondar?utm Rick Mercer = Canadian comedian, television personality, political satirist, and author Mercer gained widespread recognition as the host of "The Rick Mercer Report," This show became a cornerstone of Canadian television, offering sharp political commentary and humorous insights into Canadian life. Source - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rick_Mercer?utm Donovan bailey = A retired Jamaican-Canadian sprinter famous for his outstanding speed. He is best known for winning the gold medal in the 100 meters at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, where he set a new world record with a time of 9.84 seconds. The first Canadian to legally break the 10-second barrier in the 100 meters. He won the World Championship in the 100 meters Source = https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donovan_Bailey?utm Celine Dion = Canadian singer renowned for her powerful vocals and extensive musical career best-selling Canadian recording artist, the best-selling French-language artist, and one of the best-selling music artists in history, with record sales exceeding 200 million worldwide. She became diagnosed with Stiff-person Syndrome which led her to cancel her tour. Source = https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Celine_Dion?utm_ Round 3 : Micheal J. Fox = In 1991, Fox was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, a progressive neurological disorder. He publicly disclosed his condition in 1998 and subsequently became a leading advocate for Parkinson's research. In 2000, he established The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, which has since become a global leader in funding research aimed at finding a cure. The foundation has contributed over $900 million to Parkinson's disease research. Source = https://www.ilctr.org/about-immigrants/immigrant-entrepreneurs/hall-of-fame/michael-j-fox /?utm Sarah Polley = Canadian filmmaker, writer, and former actor She has volunteered for organizations such as the Ontario Coalition Against Poverty and the Canadian Peace Alliance. she was injured during a protest against the provincial Progressive Conservative government in Queen's Park She also participated in the 2001 opposition to the Free Trade Area of the Americas and served on former Toronto mayor David Miller's transition advisory team in 2003 Source = https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarah_Polley?utm Tommy Prince = Indigenous veteran of the Second World War and the Korean War founding member of the elite 1st Canadian Parachute Battalion and First Special Service Force (Devil’s Brigade) during the Second World War. In 1951, he contributed to the stalwart defence of Hill 677 in the Battle of Kapyong during the Korean War a prominent leader in the First Nations rights movement of the 1940s one of three Canadians to receive both the Silver Star (U.S.) and the Military Medal serve as spokesperson and vice-president of the Manitoba Indian Association He advocated for the removal of the Indian Act and respect for existing treaties. He called for improved schools, better living conditions, and expanded hunting, trapping, and fishing rights. Source = https://parks.canada.ca/culture/designation/personnage-person/tommy-prince Leonard Cohen = Canadian artist whose contributions as a poet, novelist, singer, and songwriter Cohen donated the $50,000 prize from his 2011 Glenn Gould Prize to the Canada Council for the Arts. He gained national recognition with works like The Spice-Box of Earth (1961) and the novel Beautiful Losers His music and literature inspire artists and audiences. Source = https://www.canada.ca/en/news/archive/2012/05/leonard-cohen-donates-50-000 -prize-canada-council.html?utm Frederik Banting = A soft-spoken and modest physician who saved millions of lives Sold the patent rights for insulin to the University of Toronto for $1 Researched for mustard gas, anti-gravity suits and oxygen masks. Participated in research relating to silicosis, cancer and aviation medicine, among many other projects. The university hired Banting as Canada's first Research Professor and established the Banting and Best Department of Medical Research in 1930. Drs. Banting, Best, Macleod and Collip announced the discovery of insulin to the world During the First World War, he enlisted with the Canadian Army Medical Corps. Source = https://www.cdnmedhall.ca/laureates/frederickbanting#:~:text=He%20coordinated%20the%2 0National%20Wartime,gravity%20suits%20and%20 oxygen%20 masks.&text=He%20 participated%20in%20research%20 relating,medicine%2C%20among%20many%20 other%20 projects. Round 4 : Rick Hanson = A Paralympic athlete and the founder of the Rick Hansen Foundation, an organization that removes barriers for people with disabilities by changing attitudes, creating accessible spaces and inspiring an inclusive society. He represented Canada at the Summer Paralympic Games. Started the man in motion world tour to raise awareness for the people with disabilities and raised $26 million. Source = https://sttpcanada.ctf-fce.ca/lessons/rick-hansen/bio/#:~:text=Between%201979%20and%201 984%2C%20 Hansen,in%201979%2C%201980%20and%201982. James Cameron = Famous Canadian filmmaker celebrated for his innovative contributions to the film industry. Cameron's films, such as "Titanic" and "Avatar," have achieved huge success, Cameron has engaged in environmental advocacy within Canada. In 2010, he visited the Alberta oil sands to discuss environmental concerns with Indigenous leaders and government officials He conducted a solo operation to the Mariana Trench, the deepest part of the world's oceans. Source = https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Cameron?utm Julie Payette : Canadian engineer, astronaut, and former Governor General In 1992, she joined the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) as a member of the Canadian Astronaut Corps She flew two space missions: STS-96 in 1999 and STS-127 in 2009 During these missions, she operated the Canadarm robotic arm, a symbol of Canada's contributions to space exploration First Canadian to participate in an International Space Station (ISS) assembly mission and to board the Space Station Served as a Capsule Communicator (CAPCOM) at NASA's She was also a governor General, she emphasized the importance of science, technology, and innovation in Canadian society during her time as the governor general. Source = https://www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/astronauts/canadian/former/bio-julie-payette.asp?utm https://www.gg.ca/en/governor-general/former-governors-general/julie-payette/biography?ut m Tantoo Cardinal = Cardinal was a leader of a group requesting the Canadian government to build more schools on Indian reservations in Alberta. Cardinal has appeared in over 130 film, television, and animation projects Her performances have been instrumental in bringing Indigenous stories and perspectives to mainstream audiences. In 2009, she was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada for her contributions to the growth and development of Aboriginal performing arts in Canada. Source = https://nellies.org/womens-history-month-tantoo-cardinal/?utm https://www.canadaswalkoffame.com/inductee/tantoo-cardinal?utm https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0001987/bio/?utm Romeo Dallaire = is a retired Canadian lieutenant-general, humanitarian, and former senator Dallaire's military career is notably marked by his role as the Force Commander of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda (UNAMIR) during the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Despite limited resources and support, he made valiant efforts to halt the atrocities, bringing global attention to the crisis and highlighting the challenges of international peacekeeping. Dallaire became a prominent advocate for human rights, focusing on issues such as the prevention of mass atrocities and the plight of child soldiers. In 2007, he founded the Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace, and Security, dedicated to eradicating the use of child soldiers worldwide. Source = https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/romeo-dallaire?utm https://www.worldvision.ca/stories/child-protection/child-soldiers-a-conversation-with-romeo -dallaire?utm January 14th Rounds : Round 1 : Henry Morgentlar = Advocated for legal access to abortions in Canada during the twentieth century. In 1969 Acted as a reproductive rights activist He opened his first abortion clinic in Canada Acknowledge the agency of women and their right to control their bodies and their fertility Source = https://embryo.asu.edu/pages/henry-morgentaler-1923-2013#:~:text=Henry%20 Morgentaler%20was%20a%20 physician,court%20case%20of%20R%20v. Autumn Pelletier = She has spent more than half her young life working to bring clean water to Indigenous peoples in Canada. Peltier has served as the chief water commissioner for the Anishinabek Nation in Ontario, Canada. Peltier has received widespread recognition for her environmental work at a very early age, raised awareness towards water rights and ensuring communities have access to clean, safe and reliable drinking water leading voice, advocate and activist for all Indigenous matters. Source = https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autumn_Peltier https://kids.britannica.com/kids/article/Autumn-Peltier/636323#:~:text=She%20has%20 spent%20more%20than,represents%2040%20 Ontario%20First%20 Nations. Kiefer Sutherland = British-born Canadian actor, producer, director, and singer. He gained international fame for his portrayal of Jack Bauer in the television series 24, for which he received a Golden Globe and an Emmy Award. In June 2023, Sutherland organized a fundraiser in Nova Scotia to support those affected by wildfires. Source = https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/sutherland-and-douglas-share-the-st age?utm Sheila Watt-Cloutier = Canadian Inuit activist renowned for her advocacy on environmental, cultural, and human rights issues, particularly concerning the Arctic and its Indigenous communities. Watt-Cloutier served as President of ICC Canada from 1995 to 1998 and was re-elected in 1998 negotiated the Stockholm Convention, a global treaty aimed at eliminating persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that contaminate the Arctic food chain. Watt-Cloutier filed a petition with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, asserting that unchecked greenhouse gas emissions from the United States violated the human rights of the Inuit by contributing to climate change. Watt-Cloutier worked as a counselor in the review process of the education system of Northern Quebec. Her efforts culminated in the 1992 report of the lead vocalist and lyricist of The Tragically Hip"Silaturnimut - The Pathway to Wisdom," which aimed to make education more effective in meeting the needs of Inuit communities. Source = https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sheila_Watt-Cloutier?utm Round 2 : Gord Downie = The lead vocalist and lyricist of The Tragically Hip. The Tragically Hip, Downie played a pivotal role in shaping Canadian music. The band's storytelling and reflection of Canadian experiences resonated deeply with audiences, Downie was a passionate environmentalist, particularly concerning water rights. He served on the board of Lake Ontario Waterkeeper, working to protect the Great Lakes and advocating against practices harmful to the environment. His efforts included opposing a cement company's proposal to burn tires for fuel. Downie launched the "Secret Path" project, telling the story of Chanie Wenjack, a young Indigenous boy who died escaping a residential school. This project aimed to raise awareness about the injustices faced by Indigenous communities and promote reconciliation. He also co-founded the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund, dedicated to bridging the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. Established the gord downie fund for Cancer research. Source = https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/tiff-2024-tragically-hip-series-honors-beloved-canadian-ban d-2024-09-05/?utm https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gord_Downie?utm Stephen Lewis = Canadian politician, diplomat, and humanitarian. Lewis was elected as a Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Scarborough West in 1963. In 1970, he became the leader of the Ontario NDP, serving until 1978. During his tenure, he was instrumental in advocating for social justice and labor rights, including his support for the Elliot Lake miners, which led to the establishment of the Royal Commission on the Health and Safety of Workers in Mines. In 2003, he co-founded the Stephen Lewis Foundation, focusing on supporting community-based organizations in Africa that are working to address the impact of HIV/AIDS. Source = https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephen_Lewis?utm https://stephenlewisfoundation.org/about-the-co-founders/?utm Rene Levesque = Lévesque was a leading advocate for Quebec's independence from Canada. In 1980, under his leadership, the Parti Québécois (PQ) held a referendum on Quebec's sovereignty-association plan. He enacted the Quebec Charter of the French Language (Bill 101) in 1977. This legislation aimed to make French the primary language of work, instruction, and business in Quebec Lévesque's government completed the nationalization of hydroelectric companies, consolidating them under Hydro-Québec, which became a symbol of Quebec's economic autonomy. His administration was the first in Canada to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation in the province's Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms in 1977. Source = https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ren%C3%A9_L%C3%A9vesque?utm Bobby Orr = One of the greatest hockey players in history Orr's innovative playing style transformed the role of the defenseman in hockey. His remarkable skating ability, offensive prowess, and playmaking skills set new standards for the position. He remains the only defenseman to have won the Art Ross Trophy as the NHL's leading scorer, achieving this feat twice. Source = https://www.britannica.com/biography/Bobby-Orr?utm Robert Munsch = Robert Munsch, is a famous Canadian author celebrated for his imaginative and humorous children's books. Munsch has authored over 60 books, many of which have been translated into more than 30 languages, including eight Indigenous languages. His works have sold over 30 million copies worldwide. He advocates for mental health awareness and emphasizes the importance of open communication and support. Source = https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/robert-munsch?utm Round 3: David Suzuki = Canadian scientist, broadcaster, and environmental activist Suzuki co-founded the David Suzuki Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainability. The foundation has become one of Canada's most trusted environmental organizations, focusing on issues such as climate change, biodiversity, and sustainable development. Source = https://davidsuzuki.org/about/our-story/?utm Lincoln Alexander = The first Black Canadian to sit in the House of Commons.​ He was also the first black Canadian appointed Minister of Labour, marking another historic first as the first Black Canadian to serve in the federal Cabinet.​ Alexander was the first Black person to hold a viceregal position in Canada, representing the Queen in Ontario. Advocate for racial equity, education, and youth empowerment. His efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion have had a lasting impact on Canadian society. Source = https://www.britannica.com/biography/Lincoln-Alexander?utm Mary Simon = Mary Simon made significant contributions to Canada through her advocacy for Indigenous rights, her role in Arctic affairs, and her historic appointment as the country's first Indigenous Governor General. advocate for Inuit rights and culture. She has represented Inuit interests to both the Canadian government and international bodies, including the United Nations. Simon served as Canada's Ambassador to Denmark, further strengthening international relations. Source = https://sttpcanada.ctf-fce.ca/lessons/mary-simon/bio/?utm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Simon?utm Graham Greene = The world’s best known Aboriginal actor. worked with Toronto’s Theatre Passe Muraille, even helping to build sets for various productions. Become a role model for all Aboriginals who aspire to a career on the stage and screen. He received a 1997 National Aboriginal Achievement Award for his stellar performances. Source = https://indspire.ca/laureate/graham-greene-2/#:~:text=Greene%20has%20become%20a%20r ole,Award%20for%20his%20stellar%20performances. Christine Sinclair = Round 4 : Susan Aglukark = Susan Aglukark is an Inuk Canadian singer-songwriter who has significantly contributed to Canadian music and Indigenous advocacy. She was the first Inuk artist to have a Top 40 hit in Canada with her song "O Siem." Beyond her musical achievements, Aglukark established the Arctic Rose Foundation, focusing on addressing social challenges in Northern communities through art and creative projects. Marshall McLuhan = Marshall McLuhan was a Canadian philosopher and professor, renowned for his work in media theory. He coined the expressions "the medium is the message" and "global village," predicting the profound impact of media on society. His insights have deeply influenced communication studies, emphasizing how media shapes human experiences. Marc Garneau = Marc Garneau is a Canadian astronaut, engineer, and politician. In 1984, he became the first Canadian to journey into space as a payload specialist on the Space Shuttle Challenger. After his career with the Canadian Space Agency, Garneau transitioned into politics, serving as a Member of Parliament and holding various ministerial positions, contributing to Canada's science and technology sectors. Maurice Duplessis = Maurice Duplessis was a Canadian politician who served as the Premier of Quebec for several terms between 1936 and 1959. His tenure, often referred to as "La Grande Noirceur" (The Great Darkness), was marked by conservative policies, strong Catholic Church influence, and opposition to trade unions. Duplessis's era significantly impacted Quebec's social and political landscape, leading to substantial changes in the province's modernization efforts post his regime. Due for January 15 th Round 1: Chris Hadfield = Chris Hadfield is a retired Canadian astronaut renowned for his significant contributions to space exploration. He was the first Canadian to operate the Canadarm in orbit, perform a spacewalk, and command the International Space Station (ISS). His leadership aboard the ISS and his efforts to engage the public with space science have inspired many Canadians. Elijah Harper = Elijah Harper was a Canadian politician and Indigenous leader best known for his pivotal role in opposing the Meech Lake Accord in 1990. As a Member of the Manitoba Legislative Assembly, Harper's dissent highlighted the lack of Indigenous consultation in constitutional discussions, bringing national attention to Indigenous rights and issues in Canada. Agnes MacPhail = Agnes Macphail was the first woman elected to the Canadian House of Commons in 1921. She was a staunch advocate for women's rights, prison reform, and social justice. Macphail's pioneering political career paved the way for increased female participation in Canadian politics. Norval Morrisseau = Norval Morrisseau, also known as Copper Thunderbird, was an influential Indigenous artist who founded the Woodland School of Art. His vibrant paintings, rooted in Anishinaabe cultural traditions, played a crucial role in bringing Indigenous art to the forefront of the Canadian art scene. Round 2: Tommy Douglas = Tommy Douglas was a prominent Canadian politician and the seventh Premier of Saskatchewan. He is best known as the father of universal health care in Canada, having introduced the first single-payer, universal health care program in Saskatchewan, which later became a model for the entire country. The Group of Seven = The Group of Seven was a collective of Canadian landscape painters in the early 20th century. They are renowned for pioneering a distinct Canadian art style, capturing the rugged wilderness and natural beauty of Canada. Their work played a significant role in defining Canadian art and national identity. Murray Sinclair = Murray Sinclair was a distinguished Canadian judge and senator, notable for being the first Indigenous judge in Manitoba. He led the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada, which investigated the history and impacts of the Indian Residential School system. Under his leadership, the TRC produced 94 Calls to Action aimed at advancing reconciliation between Canadians and Indigenous peoples. Kenojuak Ashevak = Kenojuak Ashevak was a celebrated Inuit artist from Canada, renowned for her pioneering work in modern Inuit art. Her iconic prints and drawings, such as "The Enchanted Owl," have been instrumental in bringing Inuit art to international prominence and preserving Indigenous cultural expression. Round 3: Joey Smallwood = Joey Smallwood was a prominent Canadian politician who played a pivotal role in bringing Newfoundland into Canadian Confederation in 1949. As the first Premier of Newfoundland, he led the province from 1949 to 1972, focusing on modernization and economic development. Smallwood's efforts were instrumental in shaping Newfoundland's integration into Canada. Michaelle Jean = Michaëlle Jean served as the 27th Governor General of Canada from 2005 to 2010, becoming the first Black person and third woman to hold the position. Born in Haiti, she immigrated to Canada and built a distinguished career as a journalist and broadcaster before her vice-regal appointment. During her tenure, Jean focused on youth engagement, culture, and the arts, and was a strong advocate for human rights and social justice. Arthur Currie = General Sir Arthur Currie was a senior officer of the Canadian Army who commanded the Canadian Corps during World War I. He is renowned for his leadership during key battles, including Vimy Ridge and Passchendaele. Currie's strategic acumen and emphasis on meticulous planning significantly contributed to the successes of Canadian forces, earning him recognition as one of Canada's greatest military leaders. Terry Fox = Terry Fox was a Canadian athlete and cancer research activist who embarked on the "Marathon of Hope" in 1980, aiming to run across Canada to raise funds for cancer research. Despite losing a leg to cancer, he ran 5,373 kilometers over 143 days before his illness forced him to stop. Fox's legacy endures through annual Terry Fox Runs held worldwide, which have raised over $800 million for cancer research. Leonard Cohen = Leonard Cohen was a Canadian singer-songwriter, poet, and novelist whose work garnered international acclaim. Known for his deep, emotive voice and profound lyrics, his songs like "Hallelujah" and "Suzanne" have become cultural touchstones. Cohen's contributions to music and literature have left an indelible mark on Canada's cultural heritage. Round 4: Viola Desmond = Viola Desmond was a Black Canadian businesswoman and civil rights activist who, in 1946, challenged racial segregation by refusing to leave a whites-only area of a Nova Scotia movie theatre. Her courageous act became a catalyst for the civil rights movement in Canada, leading to increased awareness and eventual changes in discriminatory laws. In recognition of her legacy, Desmond was featured on the Canadian $10 bill in 2018. Wayne Gretzky = Wayne Gretzky, known as "The Great One," is a retired Canadian professional ice hockey player and former head coach. He is widely regarded as the greatest hockey player of all time, holding numerous records, including the most goals and assists in NHL history. Gretzky's exceptional skill and sportsmanship have made him a national icon and significantly contributed to popularizing hockey in Canada and internationally. Billy Bishop = Billy Bishop was a Canadian flying ace during World War I, officially credited with 72 victories, making him the top Canadian and British Empire ace of the war. His remarkable bravery and skill in aerial combat earned him numerous honors, including the Victoria Cross. Bishop's legacy is commemorated through various memorials, including the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Clara Hughes = Clara Hughes is a Canadian cyclist and speed skater, celebrated for being the only athlete in history to win multiple medals in both the Summer and Winter Olympic Games. Beyond her athletic achievements, Hughes is a prominent advocate for mental health awareness, openly sharing her personal struggles with depression and leading national campaigns to reduce stigma around mental illness. Neil Young = Neil Young is a Canadian singer-songwriter and musician, renowned for his distinctive voice and influential contributions to rock and folk music. With a career spanning over five decades, Young's work has garnered international acclaim, and he has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice. His music often reflects social and environmental themes, resonating with audiences worldwide.