As a parent of a young child…

As a parent of a young child, I am deeply concerned about the Ontario government’s decision to remove more than 100 species from provincial recognition under the Species Conservation Act. This decision ignores our shared responsibility — not only to the natural world, but also to the generations that will inherit the land we leave behind.

In this time of reconciliation, we must remember that Indigenous teachings remind us to make decisions with the well-being of the next seven generations in mind. The removal of protections for species like the Redside Dace, Eastern Musk Turtle, and Red-Headed Woodpecker dishonours that principle and diminishes our relationship with the lands, waters, and all living beings that sustain us.

Our children deserve to inherit a world where nature thrives — where biodiversity is valued, protected, and restored. By failing to safeguard these species, we risk erasing irreplaceable parts of our natural and cultural heritage.

I urge the Government of Ontario to reverse this decision, uphold the intent of the Endangered Species Act, and work in true partnership with Indigenous Nations, conservation experts, and communities to protect the web of life that connects us all.

The choices we make today will echo far into the future. Let us choose care, respect, and responsibility — for our children, and for all generations to come.