March 19, 2025
The Right Honourable Mark Carney
Prime Minister of Canada
Office of the Prime Minister
80 Wellington Street
Ottawa, ON K1A 0A2
Dear Prime Minister Carney,
On behalf of the Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW), I extend our sincere congratulations on your election as Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada and your swearing-in as the 24th Prime Minister of Canada.
As the national voice for over 25,000 social workers across Canada, CASW looks forward to collaborating with your government to build a more equitable and inclusive Canada for all.
We acknowledge the complexity of the current political and economic climate in which the 30th Canadian Ministry was appointed. However, CASW feels compelled to express its deep disappointment regarding the elimination of Ministerial roles dedicated to Women and Gender Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, as well as Mental Health and Addictions.
In a time marked by division and overt challenges to equity, diversity, and inclusion, the absence of dedicated representation for equity-denied groups in Cabinet sends a concerning message. It suggests that the needs and rights of these communities are not being prioritized.
CASW strongly urges that, should the Liberal Party of Canada secure another mandate in the next election, the 31st Canadian Ministry be expanded to ensure dedicated representation for equity-denied groups.
On behalf of the CASW Board and federation partners, we look forward to your leadership with hope and optimism, anticipating meaningful progress toward equity and inclusion in our country.
Sincerely,
Barb Whitenect, MSW, RSW
CASW President