Two departing MPs let loose in their farewell speeches in Parliament

Two MPs who won’t be running in the next election let loose in their official farewell speeches in Parliament.

Nunavut MP Mumilaaq Qaqqaq called Canada a country built on the oppression of Indigenous people and whose history is stained with blood.

“Every time I walk onto House of Commons grounds, speak in these chambers, I am reminded every step of the way I don’t belong here,” she said.

“I have never felt safe or protected in my position, especially within the House of Commons.”

Qaqqaq said she has heard many “pretty words” about reconciliation, diversity and inclusion, but they have proven to be largely empty.

I just gave my farewell speech in Parliament.

I didn’t hold back.

You can watch the whole thing here:https://t.co/lvBdLAa1Db

— Mumilaaq Qaqqaq (@MumilaaqQaqqaq) June 16, 2021

Bloc Quebecois MP Simon Marcil also blasted Canada’s treatment of Indigenous people, while claiming Canada stole its maple leaf and beaver symbols from Quebec.

He argued that the notion of Canada as a progressive, environmentally friendly,
egalitarian and democratic country is false on all fronts.

Eleven other departing MPs spoke glowingly about the honour of serving Canada.