On July 26th, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau unveiled a cabinet shuffle, redistributing roles among current ministers and welcoming new ones. While cabinet changes are routine, this shuffle stands out for its impact on the government and the diversity showcased in Trudeau’s new team. This blog delves into how immigration has played a pivotal role in forming one of Canada’s most diverse cabinets.
Notable Portfolio Changes
Anita Anand
Anand is now the Treasury Board President, having previously been the Minister of National Defense and Receiver General of Canada. Born in Nova Scotia, her parents immigrated from Nigeria in the 1960s. She’s also a Member of Parliament (MP) for Oakville.
Ahmed Hussen
Hussen, the Minister of International Development, arrived in Canada as a refugee from Somalia in 1993. He served as the Minister of Housing, Diversity and Inclusion, Families, Children and Social Development, and Immigration. He represents York South—Weston.
Kamal Khera
Khera, an immigrant from India, is now the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities. She’s known for her early entry into Canadian politics, becoming an MP for Brampton West at just 26.
Mary Ng
Ng, the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade, and Economic Development, was born in Hong Kong and immigrated to Canada as a child. Her extensive public service career includes roles in Ontario’s Ministry of the Attorney General and Cabinet Office. She represents Markham—Northhill.
Pablo Rodriguez
Rodriguez, the new Minister of Transport, fled Argentina during the “Dirty War.” He previously served as the Minister of Cultural Heritage and Leader of the Government House of Commons. He’s the MP for Honoré-Mercier.
Harjit S. Sajjan
Sajjan, now the Minister of Emergency Preparedness and President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada, arrived in Canada as a child. His military and police background led him to roles such as Minister of Veteran’s Affairs and National Defense. He represents Vancouver South.
Welcoming New Cabinet Members
Gary Anandasangaree
Anandasangaree, of Sri-Lankan heritage, came to Canada as a refugee in 1983. He’s now the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, succeeding Marc Miller. He’s known for his work as a lawyer and human rights activist.
Soraya Martinez Ferrada
Martinez Ferrada, born in Chile, immigrated to Montreal as a child. She now serves as the Minister of Tourism, with previous roles in the Montreal City Councillor’s office.
Ya’ara Saks
Saks, a dual citizen of Canada and Israel, is the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health. She’s the first MP to hold both citizenships and has a background in health and wellness.
Rechie Valdez
Valdez, the first Filipino-Canadian woman in Canadian parliament, is the Minister of Small Businesses. She transitioned from the financial sector to entertainment before entering politics.
Arif Virani
Virani, a Ugandan refugee of Indian origin, is now the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada. His career has seen roles as a parliamentary secretary and MP for Parkdale—High Park.
This diverse cabinet not only demonstrates Canada’s commitment to inclusivity but also the significant contributions of immigrants to the nation’s leadership and progress.
