Federal Speech from the Throne

In the September 23 Speech from the Throne, the federal government introduced the government’s direction and goals in regards to COVID-19, the economy, and more. The plan outlines policy initiatives the federal government intends to follow but not a fiscal plan on how the government will pay for new initiatives. The federal government will release the budgetary plan later this fall.

The plan promises new social programs to help working women and families; financial support programs for businesses and people hit by the economic downturn; plans to address climate change and other environmental issues while creating new jobs; and addressing systemic racism, among others. However, the charitable and nonprofit sector is largely missing from the Throne Speech. Although the plan has some initiatives that involve charities and nonprofits, such as childcare, an action plan for women, healthcare, art and culture, seniors, homelessness, climate initiatives, reconciliation and racism, and international development, the nonprofit sector was not explicitly and directly mentioned.

“Charities and nonprofits hoped for an explicit and strong government commitment to our organizations in yesterday’s Speech from the Throne. Although certain mission areas were targeted in the suite of commitments made in the Speech, its contents fell short of the acknowledgement the sector requires as it continues to serve communities during this challenging time.” Imagine Canada's statement to the Speech from the Throne.

We strongly support Imagine Canada in requesting a Sector Resilience Grant Program to help organizations across the country adapt and innovate to support Canadians. We are also in support of a “home” in government as every facet of society is attached to charity and will help the sector connect with the government.

Imagine Canada released their initial statement to the Throne Speech, and we encourage you to support their initiatives. We also encourage your organization to reflect on The Philanthropist’s article on what the Throne Speech means for the sector.