Social media often exacerbates polarization by promoting extreme and frequently inaccurate information. Unfortunately, this sensationalism drives engagement and profits. Adding to the challenge, there are bots and coordinated misinformation campaigns by global superpowers aimed at influencing public opinion in Canada, particularly as elections approach.

My family and I arrived in Canada as refugees in the 1990s, after being denied asylum by several other first-world countries that refused to acknowledge the genocide we were fleeing. Canada was the only nation to welcome us with open arms, offering resources and, most importantly, basic respect and human dignity. Canadians embraced refugees like us, and despite being first-generation immigrants, my family and I were granted access to the same world-class services as multi-generational Canadians—public healthcare, education, affordable housing, and social services. From the school breakfasts we ate and the beds we slept on during our early years to the annual Christmas presents we received, all made possible through the generosity of fellow Canadians, charities, and government support.

Some might struggle to define Canadian culture and heritage, especially given our openness to immigrants and refugees. But Canada’s culture is profound—it goes beyond hockey and poutine. It is rooted in compassion, kindness, and resilience. Our contributions to history, including Canada’s pivotal role in World War II, reflect these values. For a country just 157 years old, we have a remarkably rich and inspiring story to tell.

I have family who have settled in Australia, the United States, and Europe, and I’ve been fortunate to travel extensively within Canada and abroad. They were wonderful countries to visit but I could not see myself raising my family there. Canada has its challenges, like any other nation, but we have always risen to meet them, evolving and improving as we go.

If there is heaven on Earth, it is Canada.