ACTUAL NEWS: Weekly Recap 🇨🇦 Edition
- Olga Nesterova
- May 9
- 10 min read
May 10th, 2025
May in Canadian History
1535: Jacques Cartier embarked on his second voyage to Canada, aiming to explore the St. Lawrence River.
1670: The Hudson’s Bay Company was founded on May 2, receiving a royal charter from King Charles II to control trade and land in Rupert's Land.
1849: On May 19, the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Canada approved a proposal to move the capital to Toronto and Quebec City on a rotating basis. This decision followed the burning of the Parliament Buildings in Montreal.
1870: On May 12, Manitoba was created by The Manitoba Act, receiving royal assent. It was officially incorporated into Confederation on July 15 that year—the only province to enter Confederation under Indigenous leadership (that of Louis Riel).
1885: From May 9 to 12, the Battle of Batoche occurred during the North-West Rebellion, where the Métis were defeated. On May 15, Louis Riel surrendered near Batoche and was arrested.
1915: During World War I, Canadian forces fought in the Second Battle of Ypres in Belgium, using innovative defense tactics after being attacked with poison gas.
1917: The Battle of Vimy Ridge was officially recognized as a defining moment in Canadian military history; commemorations often take place in May.
1932: The Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (CCF), a forerunner of the New Democratic Party, was founded in Calgary in May.
1969: The Official Languages Act was introduced in May, establishing both English and French as official languages of Canada.
1980: On May 20, the first Quebec referendum on sovereignty was held. The majority (59.56%) voted "No" to separation from Canada.
2006: On May 17, the Canadian Parliament recognized the Komagata Maru incident as a historical wrong, acknowledging the mistreatment of South Asian immigrants in 1914.
2018: On May 23, the city of Surrey and the province of British Columbia recognized May 23 as Komagata Maru Remembrance Day. Subsequent municipalities, including New Westminster and Vancouver, followed suit.
2025: On May 26, King Charles and Queen Camilla are scheduled to visit Canada to inaugurate a new session of Parliament, delivering the throne speech. This visit is seen as a significant gesture amid escalating trade tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump.
National observances to look forward to:
Manitoba Day: Observed on May 12, marking the founding of Manitoba.
Victoria Day: Celebrated on the last Monday preceding May 25, honoring Queen Victoria's birthday.
International Missing Children's Day: Observed on May 25 to highlight efforts to find and support missing children.
Asian Heritage Month: Recognized throughout May to honor the contributions of Asian Canadians.
🇨🇦 Mother’s Day Traditions Across Canada
Quebec
In Quebec, Mother's Day, known as Fête des Mères, is marked by family gatherings and outings. A notable tradition is the giving of bouquets of roses to mothers, with florists in cities like Montreal preparing special arrangements for the occasion. Children often present handmade gifts and cards to express their appreciation.
Ontario
Ontario offers a variety of Mother's Day experiences, from brunches and afternoon teas to special events at local attractions such as museums, botanical gardens, and parks. Families often take advantage of the spring weather to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or picnicking.
British Columbia
In British Columbia, Mother's Day is celebrated with family gatherings, meals, and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or visiting local parks and gardens. Many families also take the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the province and enjoy scenic drives along the coast or through the mountains.
Atlantic Canada
In the Atlantic provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island, Mother's Day is celebrated with family gatherings, meals, and special events such as brunches or afternoon teas. Communities often host local events, and families come together to honor mothers and mother figures.
Ontario – Pelee Island
On Pelee Island, Ontario, Mother's Day coincides with the Annual Springsong Weekend, a celebration of birds and books. Hosted by famed Canadian author Margaret Atwood, this event includes birdwatching, literary discussions, and community gatherings, offering a unique way to celebrate mothers amidst nature.
Toronto
In Toronto, Mother's Day is marked by various events such as the Mother's Day Breast Cancer Walk, which raises funds for the Breast Cancer Society of Canada. Additionally, special brunches and boat cruises are organized, offering families opportunities to celebrate together in unique settings.
Whether through family gatherings, outdoor activities, or community events, let us take this day to honor and appreciate mothers and mother figures.
What are you planning on doing? Let me know by commenting below!
Federal Politics
Prime Minister Mark Carney's Diplomatic Engagements
Meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump:
On May 6, Prime Minister Carney met with President Trump at the White House. Trump suggested that Canada should become the "51st state" to avoid tariffs and receive military protection. Carney firmly rejected this notion, stating: "America is not Canada. Canada will never ever be part of the United States in any way, shape, or form."
Conversations with European Leaders:
French President Emmanuel Macron: Carney emphasized Canada's role as a "reliable, trustworthy, and strong partner," aiming to strengthen ties with Europe amidst U.S. trade tensions.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer: Carney reaffirmed Canada's commitment to the U.K., highlighting shared values and sovereignty.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen: Carney engaged in discussions to deepen Canada-EU cooperation amid U.S. instability.
Meeting with Federal Ministers:
Carney met with cabinet ministers to coordinate responses to U.S. trade pressures and Alberta's internal tensions. The focus was on protecting Canadian interests, with reports suggesting a "united front" approach in Parliament.
🧭 Alberta's Referendum Proposal
Premier Danielle Smith's Announcement:
Premier Smith proposed a referendum on Alberta's separation from Canada, contingent on a citizen-led petition garnering sufficient support. She emphasized the right of Albertans to decide amid longstanding grievances against federal policies, particularly concerning the oil industry. While she personally opposes secession, Smith advocates for provincial autonomy in administering services.
Prime Minister Carney's Response:
Carney expressed willingness to collaborate with Premier Smith to address Alberta's economic concerns. He emphasized the importance of national unity and the need for constructive dialogue to resolve issues without resorting to separation.
🗳️ Federal By-Election Developments
Pierre Poilievre's Path to Re-enter Parliament:
Conservative MP Damien Kurek announced his intention to resign from the Battle River—Crowfoot riding to allow Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre to contest a by-election and return to Parliament. Poilievre had lost his seat in Carleton during the April 28 federal election. Prime Minister Carney affirmed his commitment to promptly call the by-election once Kurek's resignation is formalized.
🧭 NDP Leadership Transition
Don Davies Appointed Interim NDP Leader:
Following the New Democratic Party's poor performance in the April 28 federal election, where they secured only 6.3% of the national vote and lost official party status, Jagmeet Singh announced his resignation as party leader. On May 5, Vancouver MP Don Davies was selected as interim leader.
World Politics
🇺🇦 Ukraine & Russia
EU foreign ministers convened in Lviv to approve the creation of a war crimes tribunal to prosecute atrocities committed by Russian forces during their invasion of Ukraine, which began in February 2022.
Macron, Starmer, Tusk and Merz on their way to Kyiv, Ukraine
President Zelenskyy is hosting leaders of France, Britain, Germany and Poland in Kyiv on Saturday. The Europeans are making an unprecedented joint visit to Ukraine for talks meant to increase pressure on Russia to accept a ceasefire.
The trip by French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is the first time the leaders of the four European nations have made a joint visit to Ukraine.
The symbolic show of European unity comes on the heels of Moscow's May 9 Victory Day parade, marking 80 years since victory in World War II.
US President Donald Trump has proposed a 30-day unconditional ceasefire as a step to end the conflict. But Russian President Vladimir Putin has consistently found a way to sidestep any commitment to an unconditional ceasefire that would represent more than a token gesture to placate American wishes.
"Alongside the US, we call on Russia to agree to a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire to create the space for talks on a just and lasting peace," the leaders said in a statement ahead of the visit.
They added: "We are ready to support peace talks as soon as possible, to discuss technical implementation of the ceasefire, and prepare for a full peace deal. We are clear the bloodshed must end, Russia must stop its illegal invasion, and Ukraine must be able to prosper as a safe, secure and sovereign nation within its internationally recognized borders for generations to come." (via Kyiv Post)
Upon conclusion of their meeting, “The Five” - as they called themselves in a social media post, called US President Donald Trump.
Russia held its annual Victory Day military parade in Moscow, attended by key international figures including Chinese President Xi Jinping, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico.
Yet this AI-generated depiction would've been more realistic..
🇮🇳 India–Pakistan Tensions
Operation Sindoor: India launched missile strikes on Pakistan, targeting militant groups Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Pakistan responded by shooting down five Indian fighter jets and engaging in artillery exchanges along the Line of Control.
🇺🇸 US Trade Deals
Trade Agreement: The UK agreed to a trade deal with the US, removing US tariffs on UK steel, aluminum, and car exports, while the UK will ease tariffs on US ethanol and beef. Despite the big announcement by the White House, the details are still unclear and are to be figured out.
Meanwhile, US-China trade talks have begun in Geneva. The first round of talks finished with delegations leaving separately.
Beijing has said the US must lift tariffs first and vowed to defend its interests. Bessent has said the meetings in Switzerland would focus on “de-escalation” and not a “big trade deal”.
🇪🇺 EU–Russia Relations
The EU announced €1 billion in financial aid for Ukraine, funded by frozen Russian assets.
EU leadership condemned the European leaders who decided to appease Vladimir Putin by traveling to attend the WWII Victory Day Parade in Moscow
🇳🇵 Nepal Monarchy Protests
Thousands of Nepalese demonstrated in Kathmandu advocating for the restoration of the monarchy with former King Gyanendra Bir Bikram Shah as its head.
🇨🇳 China–Russia Relations
Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Russia to participate in the Moscow Victory Day Parade and strengthen bilateral ties amid ongoing tensions with the United States
Despite the pomposity, the negotiations took a weird turn when Russian President suggested China to shift their production to Russia, so the latter could increase its exports to China.
Please find the detailed news summary in the Daily Briefing
Canada Kind
🌍 "Benevolence Bump" in Canada: Acts of Kindness Persist Post-Pandemic
A recent report indicates that acts of kindness in Canada remain over 10% higher than pre-pandemic levels. This enduring "benevolence bump" reflects a sustained increase in volunteering, donating, and helping strangers. Experts suggest that the pandemic heightened awareness of mutual support, fostering a culture of generosity that continues to thrive across generations and regions.
🐾 Toronto Neighbors' Heartwarming Bond with Dog Goes Viral
In Toronto, Adrienne Foster and her husband noticed their chocolate Labrador Retriever, Goose, forming a special connection with their neighbor, Drew. Drew, often seen working in his yard, quickly became a regular playmate for Goose. Their friendship blossomed into standing playdates, with the duo engaging in activities like backyard fetch and neighborhood walks. Foster began sharing videos of their interactions on TikTok, which resonated deeply with viewers, garnering millions of views. The pair's cheerful code phrase, “Release the Goose,” became a symbol of their joyful bond, spreading warmth and positivity online.
🍫 Peace by Chocolate: Syrian Refugee Family Spreads Sweetness and Support
Peace by Chocolate, a company founded by the Hadhad family, Syrian refugees who settled in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, continues to thrive. The company not only produces high-quality chocolates but also contributes to the community through the Peace on Earth Society, which supports various charitable initiatives. Their story of resilience and generosity has inspired many, and their products serve as a symbol of the positive impact refugees can have in their new communities. Peace by Chocolate became a Canadian Choice Award Winner for 2025!
Watch Now: "Made in Canada" – Celebrating Innovation and Craftsmanship
Dive into the stories of two remarkable Canadian businesses in this exclusive recorded interview series by ONEST Network.
Founded by Miriam Pearl, a dedicated mother and entrepreneur, this Montreal-based company crafts allergen-friendly, gluten-free baked goods that don't compromise on taste. With a commitment to quality and safety, their products are non-GMO, kosher, and free from common allergens, ensuring everyone can enjoy delicious treats.
With trade uncertainty impacting Miriam’s business, how will she pivot? Watch to find out!
Led by Sherrie and Dale Kearney from Amherst, Nova Scotia, this artisan business specializes in handmade tartan products, from scarves and blankets to clothing and accessories. With over 40 years of sewing experience, Sherrie combines tradition with craftsmanship to create items that are loved by many.
What are the latest additions to the collection, and what role does Scotland play in it? Don’t miss it!
Don't miss these inspiring conversations that showcase the passion and dedication driving Canadian innovation. Tune in now to learn more about these exceptional companies and their journey to success.
Did You Know?
Canada is home to the world’s largest collection of freshwater lakes—more than any other country on Earth. In fact, it holds nearly 20% of the planet’s freshwater supply. But what many people don’t realize is that one Canadian lake, Lake Manicouagan in Quebec, is actually a massive impact crater formed by a meteor strike over 200 million years ago. Its nearly perfect circular shape is so distinct that it’s visible from space and is often referred to as the "Eye of Quebec."
This satellite image showcases the striking circular shape of the lake, a remnant of a massive asteroid impact that occurred approximately 214 million years ago. Today, it serves as a reservoir and is one of Quebec's most important regions for Atlantic salmon fishing.
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