Dean’s Public Lecture: Bob Rae on Reclaiming Canadian Sovereignty: Meeting Global Challenges with Local Action

Presented by: Ontario Tech University Faculty of Social Science and Humanities
Sponsored by: Carpenter's Local 397

Join us for an evening with Bob Rae, former Canadian ambassador to the UN, to discuss urgent challenges facing Canada at this pivotal moment. Drawing on his career in politics, policy, and diplomacy, Rae will explore threats to Canadian sovereignty and ideas for a vibrant and sustainable future. His recently edited book, Reclaiming Canadian Sovereignty in a Ruptured World, brings together leading thinkers to reflect on what a ruptured global order means for Canada at home and abroad. Trade disputes and foreign wars interrupt supply chains and drive up the cost of living; calls to make Canada the 51st state stoke populism and challenge national security; big tech companies strengthen their hold on Canadian markets; and climate change impacts our everyday lives. On the eve of the municipal election on October 26, we will also ask what these disruptions mean for us locally: How can we strengthen national unity, expand our political vision, and deepen democratic participation in our own communities? What is the role of youth in driving social change?

Following his talk, Rae will join a panel of community representatives to continue the discussion on our current political juncture and sources of hope for the future.

Doors open at 6:30pm.

Recommended Age: 14+
Age Restrictions: 2+