The Canadian environmental activist Severn Cullis-Suzuki gained international fame at age 12, when she addressed the Eart Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. More than 20 years on, she is still committed to the cause of sustainability. “It’s great to have a story that inspires people.”
After a week with two deadly attacks on Canadian soldiers in uniform by domestic perpetrators, Canada is carefully taking stock. Many don’t want their country to change. “We’re certainly hoping that our government and our parliament remain accessible.”
Two deadly attacks in one week have shocked Canada. A debate about domestic jihadists has suddenly gained urgency. But many are reluctant to jump to conclusions. “We are a country that is very free and open, and I think we feel strongly that should not change.”
A Canadian soldier was shot and killed yesterday at the National War Memorial in Ottawa. The gunman then stormed into Canada’s Parliament. It was the second attack in Canada within three days. Many Canadians are uncomfortable to be part of a conversation about terrorism. “This is not normal.”
Kim Phuc is known internationally as the napalm girl, the child in the historic news photo fleeing a bombardment during the Vietnam War. She is one of 20 people from across the globe featured in the forthcoming book Children Who Changed the World. “My wish is to never again see people suffer like that, especially children.”
Canada is offering business opportunities to companies producing medical cannabis. Dutch grower Bedrocan wants to benefit by taking its products to the Canadian market. An IPO of its Canadian partner went well. “We are going to build a global cannabis brand.”
Shell wants to increase oil production from the Canadian tar sands by expanding its Jackpine Mine. The company says it can do so responsibly. But opponents resist the high pace of tar sands development, demanding stronger safeguards for health and the environment in northern Alberta.
Indigenous children in Canada were traumatized and abused for many decades at residential schools meant to assimilate them into white society. A national Truth and Reconciliation Commission is traveling the country to hear testimonies about the former policy, which has been suppressed for years.
Toronto mayor Rob Ford is taking a leave of absence to deal with his infamous addiction issues. The surprise move comes after a new video emerged in which he is allegedly seen smoking crack cocaine. He still wants to remain a candidate for re-election in the fall.
Canadian teenager Amanda Todd became widely known as a victim of cyberbullying. The man who drove her to despair and suicide was probably a Dutchman. He blackmailed her with her topless photo.
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