Happy Canada Day!

 Before I get started I have to say, so many of you here. I've been coming to Parliament Hill since I was a little kid for Canada Day. And to be able to stand here before you as your Prime Minister to say thank you,  for the trust you have given me is a little bit overwhelming.

I would like to first start by recognizing that we are on Algonquin traditional territory. Canadians are often on Indigenous  peoples traditional territory without realizing it and it's important for all of us to reflect upon that because the first step of true reconciliation is learning more about one another.

You know, as I look before me today, I see what makes Canada such a unique country. I see diversity. Canada is one of the most diverse countries in the world, and also one of the most prosperous.

This is not a coincidence. Our diversity is our strength. It is something we have known for a long time, and it is what we are celebrating today.

We are a country with two official languages, in addition to some hundred other languages that are used from coast to coast. We are a country committed to renewing our relationship with Aboriginal peoples, while respecting their ancestral traditions.

We are a country in which we are all equal, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. And while we celebrate the things that make us inherently unique, we know that we, as Canadians, are united.

We share goals and aspirations for a better country, and for a better world. We share values – things like kindness, compassion, and a sense of fair play. And we know that the best Canada is a Canada in which we all succeed.

Whether we’re fundraising for Fort Mac, or welcoming Syrian refugees into our communities, we support each other in our times of need. That’s what we do. That’s who we are.

And it’s our job as your government to mirror that compassion – that kindness – that you show to one another, each and every day. Now, governments can’t do everything. And they shouldn’t try to, either.

But the idea of helping people get ahead, growing the middle class, and giving every Canadian a real and

fair chance at success – well, that’s an idea we can all get behind.

It’s about giving a break to the single mom who works three jobs. Or the young couple trying to save up for their first home.  Or the senior citizen who deserves a secure  and dignified retirement.

At the end of the day, Canada is a land  of promise and opportunity. Opportunity created by friends and

who have extended a hand to ensure that everyone succeeds.

We are here today because somewhere along the way, someone somewhere believed in us. That’s what it means to be Canadian. A year from now, we’ll be back here on Parliament Hill, celebrating Canada’s 150^th anniversary.

And by Working hard, and working together, I’m sure that next year we’ll have even more to celebrate.  We can build a better country for all Canadians.  We can build a better world for our kids and grandkids.

Because this is who we are. This is what we believe in. This is Canada. Happy Birthday Canada.