As APSA prepares for its upcoming Annual Meeting in Vancouver, British Columbia, it seems appropriate to share a reflection on a recent trip taken by APSA’s Congressional Fellowship Program (CFP). While this will be APSA’s fourthFootnote 1 Annual Meeting in Canada, a delegation from APSA’s Congressional Fellowship Program has been traveling to Canada once a yearFootnote 2 since the ‘70s. This exchange, which is a highlight of the Congressional Fellowship Program, gives fellows the opportunity to experience the differences and similarities between a Westminster parliamentary system and the US congressional system.
This year’s Canada–United States Parliamentary Exchange seemed particularly significant amidst the evolving dynamics between the two countries. The Congressional Fellowship Program would like to thank the Embassy of Canada in Washington, DC and the United States Embassy in Ottawa for their continued financial support of the exchange, making it possible for the Congressional Fellows and the Parliamentary Interns, respectively, to partake in the program. Their commitment to holding this exchange during a time of political uncertainty reinforces the importance of maintaining the long-standing relationship between the two countries.
The fellows experienced a variety of illuminating and thought-provoking activities organized through a comprehensive agenda arranged by the Parliamentary Interns. Highlights of the trip include a briefing by the Canadian Secretary to the King to explain the monarchy’s relationship within the sovereign nation, a briefing by the Speaker of the House of Commons who shared his experience managing the floor of the chamber, a briefing by the Clerk of the House of Commons for a discussion on House procedure, and many meetings with MPs and Senators. To round out an already robust schedule, fellows were also exposed to the Supreme Court of Canada (including a conversation with a sitting Justice), the Assembly of First Nations, the Canadian Medical Association, and Global Affairs Canada. Each speaker generously gave their time in explaining the ins and outs of their specific stations, for which APSA extends its gratitude.
By the end of the week, fellows came away with a greater understanding of their northern neighbors. While the relationship between Canada and the US is complex, the hospitality of our hosts remained gracious. Recent political decisions may lead to changes in their relationship, but this connection between both countries remains strong and resilient. ■
OTTAWA - From left back row: Kenta Fukao, Shane Day, Greg Fergus, Christopher Fortson. Middle row: Ann Burke, Tonya Moore, Rebecca Crow, Ilana Stol, Robert Oldham. Front row: Kawisara Sukumolchan, Kwani-Fawn Marcellay, Kealohaku’valohaku’upoki’i Balaz.
Congressional Fellows meet with Honourable Greg Fergus, Speaker of the House of Commons.
