Indian-origin Jagmeet Singh has made political history in Canada by entering the House of Commons as the first Non-White opposition leader.
Singh, the leader of the New Democratic Party, placed his hand over his heart as he walked into the Commons before the daily question period.
He was elected in federal by-elections held on February 25.
The 40-year-old’s first speech addressed the victims of horrific New Zealand shootings.
“I want to begin by expressing our solidarity with the people of New Zealand who are mourning the attack on Muslim brothers and sisters… in Christchurch,” Singh said.
Singh won his new Burnaby South seat in a February by election after the departure of former NDP MP Kennedy Stewart, who ran for mayor of Vancouver.
Reports state that the New Democrats are hoping Singh’s presence in the House of Commons marks the start of a new era for the party.
Singh used his first question as leader to press Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on the issue of housing.
“I met a mom in Burnaby. She bought a home, but cannot afford to live there anymore. Her daughter has a good job, but only gets by because she lives in the basement. Her son does not see a future. Like too many Canadians, he has lost all hope,” Singh said.
“However, the prime minister is telling families like theirs to wait for help. I believe that better is possible. Will the government commit to building half a million new affordable homes?”
Prime Minister Trudeau responded by congratulating Singh for his entry into the Commons, before touting the government’s record on fighting poverty.
Singh’s remarks echoed the mood of the House on a crucial day when the prime minister beleaguered by the resignations of his two key cabinet colleagues.
Courtesy India Times
