June 8, 2023

From sea to sea to sea, oceans, and the marine environments they shelter, are part of Canada’s identity. Our waters, and our relationships with them, influence our way of life, our stories and even our languages. This is particularly true for Indigenous peoples.

Yet, through the centuries, we have become experts at taking from our waters, failing to give back in equal measure. We desperately need balance.

As we mark World Oceans Day, I encourage all of us to consider what we can do, because, in the end, we control what happens next.

We must meet our global goals for ocean protection and recognize where we are falling short. We can build partnerships with coastal communities and Indigenous peoples. We can raise awareness about how we influence the ocean and how the ocean influences us. We are committed to a global approach to a truly global issue.

I believe in the strength of co-operation to improve the health of our world. We are all connected to the ocean, whether socially, culturally or economically. To create change is not easy. It requires us to reconsider the way we think and the way we do things. But for the next generation and beyond, we must do the work and forge a greater understanding of our relationship to this planet. 

Let’s get to work.

Mary Simon

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