The cherry blossoms weren’t the only big news story in Washington DC this month. Canada Day on the Hill – a full day of activities on Capitol Hill – celebrated and reinforced the enduring partnership and strategic relationship between Canada and the United States. No matter the issue or challenge, our two countries know we are stronger together and our communities are more prosperous, more resilient, safer and more secure for it.
On 20 March 2024, Canadian diplomats descended on the Capitol Hill to reinforce the enduring partnership and strategic relationship between Canada and the United States and showcased the strength of the bond between the two nations.
Canada’s Ambassador to the United States, Kirsten Hillman, reflected on the significance of this day, saying, “Wow, what a memorable day for Canada’s friendship with its closest ally, the United States! In a world with so many divisions and distractions, Canada Day on the Hill is a reminder of how our partnership is truly priceless. We must never take for granted the prosperity, resilience, peace, and stability that characterizes the Canada-U.S. partnership.”
Throughout the day, Canada’s 12 Consuls General, responsible for managing Canada’s relationship with states across the United States, engaged with over 50 members of Congress from both the House and the Senate. Their discussions focused on reinforcing the importance of Canada’s relationship with each district and state and exploring concrete ways to deepen collaboration.
The festivities continued with a lunchtime celebration in the Rayburn Foyer on the House side, featuring a selection of Canadian culinary delights, including Timbits, Hawaiian pizza (yes, it is Canadian!), and poutine. Those who came by had the opportunity to meet some notable Canadian figures such as hockey legends Brendan Shanahan and Hayley Wickenheiser. The provinces of Alberta and Ontario, along with members of the Canadian American Business Council (CABC), joined in the celebration, emphasizing the strong economic ties between the two countries. Even the most famous Mountie, Safety Bear made an appearance!
The same afternoon, on the Senate side of the US Capitol, Canada hosted a reception to engage with members of Congress and thank them for shining a bright light on our unique bilateral relationship with the creation of the bicameral and bipartisan American Canadian Economy and Security Caucus – also known as the ACES Caucus – which currently has 51 House members, seven Senators, and growing.
Senator Kevin Cramer of North Dakota, founding co-chair of the American Canadian Economy and Security (ACES) Caucus, expressed his appreciation for the close relationship between the U.S. and Canada. He stated, “The United States’ partnership with Canada has always been a special one… This reception was not only a celebration of the remarkable ties between our countries, but also a reminder of our shared economic prosperity and national security.”
The formation of the ACES Caucus underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthen economic and security ties. Senator Angus King of Maine highlighted this commitment, stating, “As close trade partners and allies, I look forward to strengthening this close alliance to tackle shared challenges and seize new opportunities.”
The day concluded with a spirited watch party hosted by Canada’s flagship Embassy – the only Embassy between Capitol Hill and the White House – hosted a lively watch party for two Professional Womens Hockey League (PWHL) games: Boston at Toronto, and Ottawa at New York, as well as the NHL faceoff between the Maple Leafs and Capitals. Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Congressman Nick LaLota (NY-01) served as honorary team captains for Boston and New York, respectively. A mutual passion for hockey has always been one of the deepest connections in the relationship between Canada and the United States, and the newly formed PWHL is cause for celebration on both sides of the border.
Canada Day on Capitol Hill served as a reminder of the invaluable and enduring partnership between Canada and the United States. As Congressman Mark Amodei of Nevada, co-chair of the ACES Caucus, affirmed, “Our countries are stronger together… I am dedicated to working with my House and Senate colleagues to strengthen and reaffirm the U.S.-Canada alliance.”
Canada Day on the Hill served not only as a celebration of friendship but also as a testament to the enduring bond and shared values between Canada and the United States, setting the stage for continued collaboration and prosperity for both nations.
To catch a glimpse of the vibrant celebrations on Capitol Hill, browse through the Canada Day on Capitol Hill Photos (see link below). For more information on the ACES Caucus and its members, as well as the resolutions introduced in both the House and the Senate, visit the provided links.
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