The Empire Club of Canada
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
Welcome to The Empire Club of Canada’s 120th season opener, which marks the first major speaking engagement by newly elected Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow.
Cities like Toronto play an essential role in people’s lives and Canada’s future prosperity and progress. However, cities today face enormous challenges and budgetary pressures that put everything at risk.
Increasing national challenges such as the housing crisis, homelessness, refugees displaced by war, climate change, and mental health have Toronto stepping up to face them despite being constrained by frameworks from other orders of government that cannot meet today’s modern challenges. Change is necessary.
Join Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and Hon. John Baird for a fireside conversation to discuss the challenges faced by Toronto and what needs to change to create a more affordable, safe, and inclusive city where everyone belongs.
*The content presented is free of charge but please note that the Empire Club of Canada retains copyright. Neither the speeches themselves nor any part of their content may be used for any purpose other than personal interest or research without the explicit permission of the Empire Club of Canada.*
*Views and Opinions Expressed Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the speakers or panelists are those of the speakers or panelists and do not necessarily reflect or represent the official views and opinions, policy or position held by The Empire Club of Canada.*
John Baird is a Senior Advisor at Bennett Jones LLP and a former Senior Cabinet Minister in the Government of Canada. Baird’s political career was marked by his passionate advocacy for conservative principles and his willingness to engage in robust debates.
Olivia Chow is a Canadian politician and activist who has been involved in municipal, provincial, and federal politics. Chow has been recognized for her dedication to social justice and community issues. She has been involved in numerous community organizations and has advocated for marginalized groups and individuals.