On Wednesday, February 11, Members of Parliament (MP) from all of Canada’s national political parties kicked off Kindness Week (February 15 – 21) with a multi-partisan press conference in the House of Commons foyer.
National Kindness Week, initiated in memory of the late Rabbi Dr. Reuven Bulka of Ottawa, established through the “Kindness Week Act” (Bill S-223), is a testament to Canada’s commitment to fostering a culture of kindness, volunteerism, and charitable giving. This legislative effort received Royal Assent on June 3, 2021.
“Kindness is not abstract — it’s something we can practice every day,” said Prescott-Russell-Cumberland MP Giovanna Mingarelli. “In Prescott–Russell–Cumberland, I see how much people show up for one another. National Kindness Week is a chance to celebrate that spirit, and to make sure no one feels alone or unheard.”
National Kindness Week is a reminder that small actions can have a lasting impact — especially during the winter months, when many people feel more isolated or under pressure. Whether it’s checking in on a neighbour, volunteering locally, donating to a community drive, or offering a word of encouragement, kindness helps strengthen the connections that make communities more resilient.
According to Rivière-des-Mille-Îles MP Linda Lapointe, “National Kindness Week is about the small choices that make people feel seen — a quick check-in, a supportive message, an extra bit of patience. Those moments add up, and they strengthen the sense of belonging we all need.”
National Kindness Week is also an opportunity to highlight local organizations that residents can support year-round. Residents are encouraged to consider volunteering or donating to local food banks, shelters, youth programs, seniors’ support, and community services that help meet urgent needs across the region.
“National Kindness Week is a great opportunity to celebrate our Canadian spirit by looking out for one another, helping a neighbour, volunteering our time, and acts of giving and charity,” said Leeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands–Rideau Lakes MP Michael Barrett. “It’s why I was proud to sponsor Senator Munson’s bill in Canada’s House of Commons to help make Kindness Week into law and bring people together in acts of compassion and kindness.”
“As parliamentarians, we have a duty to lead by example by conducting ourselves with kindness and civility,” emphasized Shefford MP Andréanne Larouche. “We must push back against personal attacks, disinformation, and misinformation, which do not contribute to collaborative work in the service of citizens.”
Vancouver Kingsway MP Don Davies emphasized that “with so many Canadians feeling pressure right now, kindness can be a real form of support,” adding: “National Kindness Week reminds us that empathy and solidarity aren’t abstract — they’re actions we can take, one person at a time.”
Today’s speakers reiterated the call for collaboration and commitment to kindness, urging Canadians to seize opportunities to create a more compassionate and inclusive society.
As National Kindness Week unfolds, Canadians from coast, to coast, to coast are encouraged to embrace kindness as a guiding principle, recognizing its potential to bring about positive change in their communities and beyond.
During National Kindness Week, Canadians everywhere are encouraged to lead with kindness and to reflect on how small acts can create meaningful change at home and across the country.
“Kindness is at the heart of building a healthier, more peaceful, and more sustainable society,” said Saanich—Gulf Islands MP Elizabeth May. “When we choose empathy, respect, and care for one another, we strengthen not only our communities, but the future we are creating together.”
