Unit 4 Research Questions

The Rise of Biotechnology and Medical Research

Canada became a global leader in biotechnology during the 1990s, particularly in areas such as genetic research, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. Canadian researchers contributed to breakthroughs in treatments for cancer, diabetes, and other diseases.

• How did Canadian scientists contribute to breakthroughs in biotechnology during the 1990s, particularly in the development of new treatments for diseases like cancer and diabetes?
• What role did Canadian pharmaceutical companies play in the global expansion of biotechnology, and how did these developments impact healthcare in Canada?

Advancements in Space Exploration and the Canadian Space Agency (CSA)

The creation of the Canadian Space Agency in 1989 formalized Canada’s role in space exploration. The development of technologies such as the Canadarm, used on NASA’s space shuttles, highlighted Canada’s contributions to international space missions.

• How did the creation of the Canadian Space Agency in 1989 contribute to Canada’s role in international space missions, and what were some of the key technologies developed, such as the Canadarm?
• In what ways did Canada’s participation in space exploration, particularly with NASA, shape international scientific collaborations during this period?

The Growth of Information Technology and the Digital Economy

The 1990s saw a rapid expansion of the information technology sector in Canada, with the rise of software development, telecommunications, and internet-based companies. Cities like Ottawa and Toronto became key hubs for tech innovation, contributing to the global digital economy.

• How did the rise of information technology in the 1990s transform Canada’s economy, and what role did cities like Ottawa and Toronto play in the development of the tech sector?
• What were some key innovations from Canadian tech companies in the 1990s, and how did they influence the global digital economy?

Environmental Science and Climate Change Research

During the 1980s and 1990s, Canadian scientists became increasingly involved in environmental research, with a focus on climate change, pollution, and resource management. Canada played a significant role in international environmental agreements, such as the Kyoto Protocol in 1997.

• How did Canadian scientists contribute to global climate change research during the 1980s and 1990s, and what were some of the key findings regarding pollution and resource management?
• In what ways did Canada participate in international environmental agreements like the Kyoto Protocol, and how did this shape the country’s environmental policies?

Indigenous Contributions to Environmental Conservation and Traditional Knowledge

First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities played a key role in environmental conservation efforts during this period, bringing traditional ecological knowledge into discussions about land use and resource management. Indigenous perspectives were increasingly recognized in environmental science and policy-making.

• How did First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities use traditional ecological knowledge to influence discussions on land use and environmental conservation in Canada during this period?
• In what ways did Indigenous knowledge and perspectives contribute to Canada’s environmental science and policy-making, particularly in relation to natural resource management?

The Development of Wireless and Mobile Technology

The 1990s saw Canada’s telecommunications industry flourish with advances in wireless technology and mobile communications. Companies like Nortel Networks and BlackBerry (Research In Motion) were at the forefront of developing mobile devices and networks, transforming the way people communicated.

• How did Canadian companies like Nortel Networks and BlackBerry (Research In Motion) contribute to the development of wireless and mobile technologies, and how did these innovations change global communication?
• What impact did the rise of mobile communications in the 1990s have on Canadian society, particularly in terms of business, government, and social interactions?

Advances in Hydroelectric and Renewable Energy

Canada continued to invest in renewable energy during this period, with a focus on hydroelectric power. Provinces like Quebec and British Columbia led the way in expanding hydroelectric projects, while new research into wind and solar energy also began to grow.

• How did provinces like Quebec and British Columbia expand their hydroelectric projects in the 1980s and 1990s, and what were the economic and environmental impacts of these developments?
• What role did Canada play in advancing renewable energy research, including wind and solar power, during this period, and how did this shape global environmental policy?

Genetic Research and Ethical Debates

The 1990s witnessed significant advancements in genetic research, particularly in relation to the Human Genome Project. Canadian scientists played a role in this global project, which sparked ethical debates about genetic testing, privacy, and the potential uses of genetic information.

• How did Canadian scientists contribute to the Human Genome Project and other genetic research initiatives during the 1990s, and what were some of the key findings?
• What were the ethical debates surrounding genetic research in Canada, particularly concerning privacy, genetic testing, and the use of genetic information?

Indigenous Health Research and Medical Technology

During the 1980s and 1990s, there was increasing recognition of the need for research focused on Indigenous health issues. Efforts were made to improve healthcare access for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities, with initiatives aimed at integrating traditional medicine and modern medical technology.

• How did Canadian researchers address healthcare challenges in First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities during the 1980s and 1990s, particularly in relation to integrating traditional and modern medical practices?
• What were some of the key health initiatives aimed at improving medical care in Indigenous communities, and how did these efforts impact overall health outcomes?

Innovations in Agricultural Science and Genetically Modified Crops

The 1990s saw the introduction of genetically modified (GM) crops in Canada, transforming agricultural practices. Canadian researchers were involved in developing new strains of crops that were resistant to pests and harsh climates, leading to debates about food safety and environmental impact.

• How did the introduction of genetically modified (GM) crops in the 1990s transform agricultural practices in Canada, and what were some of the environmental and economic impacts of these innovations?
• What were the public debates surrounding the safety and ethics of genetically modified crops in Canada during the 1990s, and how did these debates influence agricultural policy?

Canada’s Role in International Peacekeeping and NATO

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Canada continued to play a leading role in United Nations peacekeeping missions, particularly in conflict zones such as the Balkans, Rwanda, and Somalia. Canada also remained a key member of NATO, contributing to collective defense and international stability.

• How did Canada contribute to international peacekeeping missions during the 1990s, particularly in conflict zones like the Balkans, Rwanda, and Somalia?
• In what ways did Canada’s membership in NATO influence its defense and foreign policies during the post-Cold War era?

The Creation of NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) (1994)

NAFTA, which expanded Canada’s free trade agreement with the U.S. to include Mexico, had significant economic implications for Canada’s trade relations, economic policies, and labor markets. The agreement influenced Canada’s role in global trade and the globalization of its economy.

• What were the key economic impacts of NAFTA on Canadian industries and labor markets, particularly in manufacturing and agriculture?
• How did NAFTA change Canada’s trade relations with the United States and Mexico, and what were the long-term implications for the Canadian economy?

Canada’s Participation in the Kyoto Protocol (1997)

Canada was an early signatory to the Kyoto Protocol, an international treaty aimed at combating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Canada’s participation highlighted its commitment to environmental sustainability and its role in global environmental diplomacy.

• What role did Canada play in the creation and implementation of the Kyoto Protocol, and how did this commitment influence its environmental policies?
• How successful was Canada in meeting its greenhouse gas reduction targets under the Kyoto Protocol, and what challenges did the country face in fulfilling its obligations?

Indigenous Advocacy in International Forums

First Nations, Métis, and Inuit leaders increasingly engaged in international forums, such as the United Nations, to advocate for Indigenous rights. This period saw growing Indigenous participation in global movements for self-determination, land rights, and environmental protection.

• How did First Nations, Métis, and Inuit leaders use international forums like the United Nations to advocate for Indigenous rights, particularly around land claims and self-determination?
• In what ways did the participation of Canadian Indigenous leaders in international forums influence global discussions on Indigenous rights during the 1990s?

The Oka Crisis and its International Implications (1990)

The Oka Crisis, a land dispute between the Mohawk people and the town of Oka, Quebec, gained international attention and raised awareness about Indigenous land rights in Canada. The conflict highlighted Canada’s struggles with Indigenous issues and was discussed in international forums.

• How did the Oka Crisis raise international awareness about Indigenous land rights in Canada, and what were the global responses to the conflict?
• What were the long-term impacts of the Oka Crisis on Canada’s domestic policies related to Indigenous land claims and self-governance?

Canada’s Role in International Development and Humanitarian Aid

Canada continued to be a major player in international development, contributing humanitarian aid and resources to developing countries. Canadian NGOs and the government played a prominent role in international relief efforts in regions affected by conflict and natural disasters.

• How did Canada contribute to international development and humanitarian aid during the 1980s and 1990s, particularly in regions affected by conflict and natural disasters?
• In what ways did Canadian NGOs and government agencies work together to deliver aid and development assistance, and what were the key challenges they faced?

Canada’s Response to the End of the Cold War and Globalization

The end of the Cold War in the early 1990s shifted Canada’s focus in international relations, as the country adapted to a new geopolitical landscape. Canada became more involved in global economic organizations like the World Trade Organization (WTO) and promoted trade liberalization.

• How did Canada adapt its foreign policy and trade relations after the end of the Cold War, particularly in terms of economic globalization and participation in global organizations like the WTO?
• In what ways did the end of the Cold War change Canada’s relationships with former Soviet bloc countries and its approach to international diplomacy?

Canada’s Role in Refugee Resettlement

Canada maintained its tradition of welcoming refugees, responding to crises in regions such as Southeast Asia, the Balkans, and Africa. During the 1990s, Canada resettled thousands of refugees, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in global humanitarian efforts.

• How did Canada’s refugee resettlement programs evolve during the 1980s and 1990s, and what were the major refugee crises that led to an increase in resettlement efforts?
• In what ways did Canada’s policies on refugee resettlement shape its international reputation and domestic debates on immigration and humanitarian responsibility?

Indigenous Perspectives in International Environmental Agreements

During this period, Indigenous leaders played a key role in international environmental discussions, particularly in relation to climate change and the protection of traditional lands. Indigenous perspectives were increasingly considered in international agreements such as the Convention on Biological Diversity.

• How did Indigenous leaders from Canada contribute to international environmental agreements, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity, and what were their main concerns?
• In what ways did the inclusion of Indigenous perspectives influence international discussions on environmental protection, particularly in relation to land use and climate change?

Canada’s Role in the United Nations and Global Governance

Canada remained a strong advocate for multilateralism and global governance, supporting the United Nations and its various peacekeeping and development missions. Canadian diplomats and officials contributed to international efforts aimed at human rights, conflict resolution, and sustainable development.

• How did Canada’s participation in the United Nations during the 1980s and 1990s shape its role in global governance, particularly in areas like human rights and conflict resolution?
• What were some of the key contributions made by Canadian diplomats and officials to UN peacekeeping and development missions during this period?

Constitution Act and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms (1982)

The introduction of the Constitution Act, 1982, which included the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, marked a milestone in Canadian domestic relations. It solidified the rights of Canadians, enhanced civil liberties, and strengthened the legal framework for human rights.

• How did the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms impact civil liberties and human rights in Canada, and what were some landmark cases influenced by the Charter?
• In what ways did the Constitution Act of 1982 change the relationship between the federal government and provinces, particularly with regard to the issue of sovereignty?

Indigenous Land Claims and Self-Government Agreements

During this period, there was significant progress in settling Indigenous land claims and self-government agreements. The creation of Nunavut in 1999 was a key moment for Inuit self-governance, while modern treaties with First Nations were negotiated to recognize land rights and political autonomy.

• How did the creation of Nunavut in 1999 represent a significant step in Inuit self-governance, and what challenges did Inuit communities face in establishing the territory?
• What were some of the key land claim agreements reached with First Nations between 1982 and 2002, and how did these agreements contribute to the economic and political autonomy of Indigenous communities?

The Oka Crisis and Indigenous Resistance (1990)

The Oka Crisis was a critical moment in Canadian domestic relations regarding Indigenous land rights. It was a standoff between the Mohawk people and the government over a proposed golf course expansion on disputed land. This event raised awareness about unresolved land claims and the treatment of Indigenous peoples in Canada.

• What were the causes and outcomes of the Oka Crisis, and how did the standoff shape public awareness of Indigenous land rights in Canada?
• How did the Oka Crisis influence subsequent Indigenous protests and negotiations over land rights in other parts of Canada?

Multiculturalism and Immigration Policy

Following the adoption of the Multiculturalism Act in 1988, Canada saw a continued embrace of its diverse population. Immigration policy became more inclusive, and the country saw an influx of immigrants from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, contributing to its multicultural identity.

• How did Canada’s Multiculturalism Act of 1988 shape immigration policy, and what impact did the increasing diversity of immigrants have on Canadian society and identity?
• What challenges and opportunities did Canada face in managing its growing multicultural population during the 1980s and 1990s, particularly in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver?

Expansion of LGBTQ+ Rights

The 1980s and 1990s saw growing activism around LGBTQ+ rights in Canada. Important legal battles, such as those for same-sex benefits and protection against discrimination, laid the groundwork for the eventual legalization of same-sex marriage in 2005. The Charter of Rights and Freedoms played a critical role in these legal victories.

• How did legal battles in the 1980s and 1990s help expand LGBTQ+ rights in Canada, particularly in relation to same-sex benefits and anti-discrimination protections?
• In what ways did the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms play a role in advancing LGBTQ+ rights, and what were some key court cases that set important precedents?

Quebec Referendum on Sovereignty (1995)

The 1995 Quebec Referendum was a key moment in Canada’s history, where Quebec voters narrowly rejected the proposal for Quebec to become a sovereign state. The event had a lasting impact on Quebec-Canada relations, leading to ongoing discussions about federalism, autonomy, and national unity.

• What were the main arguments for and against Quebec sovereignty in the 1995 referendum, and how did the narrow outcome affect federalism in Canada?
• How did the results of the 1995 referendum influence subsequent political discussions on Quebec’s place within Canada and the future of national unity?

Healthcare and Medicare Reforms

The 1990s saw significant debates over the sustainability and funding of Canada’s healthcare system. Federal and provincial governments engaged in negotiations over healthcare reforms to address the rising costs of Medicare, resulting in important changes to the healthcare landscape.

• What were the key challenges facing Canada’s healthcare system in the 1990s, and how did the federal and provincial governments respond with reforms to ensure its sustainability?
• How did the debates over Medicare reforms in the 1990s reflect broader concerns about public versus private healthcare delivery in Canada?

Indigenous Residential School Acknowledgment and Apologies

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, the legacy of residential schools was increasingly acknowledged. Survivors began speaking out about their experiences, leading to a national conversation about reconciliation, government apologies, and the eventual establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in 2008.

• How did survivors of the residential school system in Canada bring national attention to their experiences in the 1990s, and what role did advocacy groups play in pushing for government acknowledgment?
• In what ways did the Canadian government’s apologies for the residential school system and the early discussions of reconciliation shape the national conversation about Indigenous rights and healing?

Women’s Rights and Gender Equality

The 1980s and 1990s saw further advancements in women’s rights, particularly in employment and political representation. Advocacy for gender equality led to reforms in maternity leave, pay equity, and representation in leadership positions, reflecting broader societal changes.

• How did the feminist movement in the 1980s and 1990s contribute to advancements in women’s rights in Canada, particularly in terms of pay equity and maternity leave policies?
• In what ways did women’s representation in political and leadership roles increase during this period, and what barriers remained for gender equality in Canadian society?

Environmental Activism and Indigenous Land Protection

During this period, there was a growing movement for environmental protection, often led by Indigenous communities. Protests and legal battles were fought over issues like deforestation, resource extraction, and the protection of sacred lands, highlighting the intersection of environmentalism and Indigenous rights.

• How did Indigenous communities lead environmental activism efforts in the 1980s and 1990s, particularly in protesting resource extraction projects that threatened their lands?
• What were some of the key legal battles and environmental protests led by Indigenous groups during this period, and how did these efforts shape Canada’s approach to land use and environmental conservation?

The Rise of Canadian Independent Film

During the 1980s and 1990s, the Canadian independent film industry flourished. Directors like Atom Egoyan, David Cronenberg, and Patricia Rozema gained international recognition, contributing to the development of a distinct Canadian cinematic voice.

• How did Canadian directors like Atom Egoyan and David Cronenberg contribute to the development of independent film in Canada, and what themes were commonly explored in their works?
• In what ways did the rise of Canadian independent film during the 1980s and 1990s reflect broader social, political, or cultural changes in Canada?

Growth of Indigenous Art and Cultural Expression

This period saw a growing recognition of Indigenous artists, with notable figures like Norval Morrisseau, Bill Reid, and Kenojuak Ashevak achieving prominence. Indigenous cultural revitalization was reflected in art, literature, and performance, highlighting themes of identity, tradition, and resistance.

• How did artists like Norval Morrisseau, Bill Reid, and Kenojuak Ashevak use their work to express Indigenous identity, tradition, and resistance during this period?
• In what ways did the resurgence of Indigenous art in the 1980s and 1990s contribute to the broader cultural revitalization of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities?

Expansion of Canadian Music on the Global Stage

Canadian musicians like Celine Dion, Shania Twain, and Alanis Morissette became global superstars during the 1990s, contributing to the country’s strong presence in the international music scene. The Canadian music industry grew significantly, supported by government initiatives like the Canadian content (CanCon) regulations.

• How did Canadian musicians such as Celine Dion, Shania Twain, and Alanis Morissette achieve global success during the 1990s, and what impact did this have on Canada’s cultural presence internationally?
• What role did the Canadian content (CanCon) regulations play in shaping the growth of the Canadian music industry, and how did they support emerging Canadian artists?

Multiculturalism in Canadian Literature and the Arts

As Canada’s immigration policies continued to diversify the population, there was a parallel rise in literature, art, and film that reflected the multicultural makeup of the country. Writers like Michael Ondaatje and Rohinton Mistry brought stories of immigrant experiences to the forefront of Canadian culture.

• How did writers like Michael Ondaatje and Rohinton Mistry explore themes of immigration, identity, and multiculturalism in their works, and how did these themes reflect the changing demographics of Canada?
• In what ways did Canada’s multicultural policies influence the representation of diverse cultures in literature, art, and film during the 1980s and 1990s?

The Growth of Canadian Television and Broadcasting

Canadian television networks like the CBC produced iconic programming during this period, including shows like Degrassi, The Kids in the Hall, and Road to Avonlea. These programs reflected both Canadian identity and broader societal themes, gaining a global audience in some cases.

• How did Canadian television programs like Degrassi, The Kids in the Hall, and Road to Avonlea reflect Canadian identity and societal themes, and what impact did these shows have both domestically and internationally?
• In what ways did Canadian television networks like the CBC shape Canadian culture and media during the 1980s and 1990s?

Emergence of Digital Art and New Media

The rise of the internet and digital technology in the 1990s transformed artistic expression. Canadian artists began exploring digital media and interactive art forms, leading to a new wave of creativity and innovation in how art was produced and consumed.

• How did the rise of the internet and digital technology during the 1990s influence the development of new media art in Canada, and what were some notable examples of early digital art?
• In what ways did Canadian artists use digital media and interactive technologies to explore new forms of creative expression, and how did this change the consumption of art?

Indigenous Film and Storytelling

Indigenous filmmakers and storytellers gained increasing prominence, with figures like Alanis Obomsawin producing powerful documentaries that shared Indigenous histories and struggles. This period marked an important step in bringing Indigenous voices to national and international audiences through film.

• How did filmmakers like Alanis Obomsawin use film to share Indigenous histories and stories, and what impact did their works have on raising awareness of Indigenous issues in Canada?
• In what ways did Indigenous filmmakers contribute to Canadian cinema during the 1980s and 1990s, and how did they challenge mainstream narratives about First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples?

Urban Art and the Hip-Hop Movement

The 1990s saw the growth of hip-hop culture in Canadian cities, particularly in Toronto and Vancouver. Artists like Maestro Fresh Wes and Kardinal Offishall gained popularity, reflecting urban life, multiculturalism, and social justice themes.

• How did the hip-hop movement in cities like Toronto and Vancouver reflect urban life and multiculturalism in Canada during the 1990s, and who were some of the key artists driving this trend?
• In what ways did Canadian hip-hop artists address social justice issues through their music, and how did they contribute to the growth of hip-hop culture in Canada?

Contemporary Dance and Performance Arts

Canadian contemporary dance and performance arts flourished, with institutions like the National Ballet of Canada and independent dance companies producing world-class performances. Artists like Margie Gillis and Marie Chouinard pushed the boundaries of performance art during this period.

• How did Canadian contemporary dancers like Margie Gillis and Marie Chouinard push the boundaries of performance art during the 1980s and 1990s, and what themes did their work explore?
• In what ways did institutions like the National Ballet of Canada contribute to the growth of contemporary dance in Canada, and how did they help bring Canadian dance to international audiences?

The Recognition of Indigenous Heritage in Museums and Cultural Institutions

Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, there was an increasing effort to include Indigenous perspectives and artifacts in museums and cultural institutions. Exhibitions and programs focused on showcasing Indigenous history, art, and culture, reflecting broader societal shifts toward reconciliation and recognition of Indigenous heritage.

• How did Canadian museums and cultural institutions work to include Indigenous perspectives and artifacts during the 1990s and 2000s, and what role did Indigenous leaders play in these efforts?
• In what ways did the increased recognition of Indigenous heritage in museums reflect broader societal shifts toward reconciliation and recognition of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit cultures?

Brian Mulroney – Politics (Prime Minister of Canada, 1984-1993)

Jean Chrétien – Politics (Prime Minister of Canada, 1993-2003)

Elijah Harper – Indigenous Rights (First Nations politician, key figure in blocking the Meech Lake Accord)

Sheila Copps – Politics (Deputy Prime Minister, advocate for women’s rights and environmental policies)

Romeo LeBlanc – Politics (Governor General of Canada, 1995-1999)

Phil Fontaine – Indigenous Rights (First Nations leader, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations)

Alanis Obomsawin – Film (Abenaki filmmaker, known for documenting Indigenous issues)

David Suzuki – Science/Environment (environmental activist, host of The Nature of Things)

Robert Lepage – Theatre/Film (innovative playwright, actor, and film director)

Roberta Bondar – Science/Space (Canada’s first female astronaut, medical doctor)

David Cronenberg – Film (pioneering Canadian filmmaker in body horror and science fiction)

Margaret Atwood – Literature (author of The Handmaid’s Tale and other influential works)

Shania Twain – Music (one of Canada’s most successful country and pop artists globally)

Tomson Highway – Literature/Theatre (Cree writer and playwright, known for The Rez Sisters)

Leonard Cohen – Music/Literature (singer-songwriter, poet, and novelist)

Celine Dion – Music (international pop star, winner of numerous awards)

Mike Myers – Film/Television (actor and comedian, known for Austin Powers and Wayne’s World)

Karen Kain – Dance (Principal Dancer, National Ballet of Canada)

Joni Mitchell – Music (iconic folk musician, continued to influence music through the 1990s)

Oscar Peterson – Music (jazz pianist, recognized worldwide for his contributions to jazz)

Buffy Sainte-Marie – Music/Indigenous Rights (Cree musician and activist, advocate for Indigenous issues)

Gordon Lightfoot – Music (folk singer-songwriter, celebrated for his contributions to Canadian music)

Pierre Trudeau – Politics (Prime Minister, returned to office in the early 1980s before retiring)

Michaëlle Jean – Politics/Media (journalist, later Governor General of Canada, 2005-2010)

Marshall McLuhan – Media/Communication (scholar known for coining the phrase “the medium is the message”)

Kenojuak Ashevak – Art (Inuit artist, known for her prints and drawings, including The Enchanted Owl)

Dan Aykroyd – Film/Television (actor and comedian, known for Ghostbusters and Saturday Night Live)

Justin Trudeau – Politics (advocate for education and social issues, before becoming Prime Minister in 2015)

Tanya Tagaq – Music (Inuit throat singer, known for her unique style blending traditional and modern elements)

Dionne Brand – Literature (poet and writer, explored themes of race, identity, and social justice)

Rita Joe – Literature (Mi’kmaq poet and author, often referred to as the “Poet Laureate of the Mi’kmaq People”)

Wayne Gretzky – Sports (hockey player, widely regarded as one of the greatest in NHL history)

Sandra Oh – Film/Television (actress, known for Grey’s Anatomy and Killing Eve)

Rick Hansen – Activism/Sports (athlete and advocate for disability rights, known for the Man in Motion Tour)

Chantal Petitclerc – Sports (wheelchair racer, Paralympic champion)

Donovan Bailey – Sports (Olympic sprinter, 1996 gold medalist in the 100 meters)

Barbara Frum – Journalism (host of The Journal and prominent Canadian journalist)

Susan Aglukark – Music (Inuit singer-songwriter, blended traditional Inuit music with contemporary pop)

Paul Martin – Politics (Minister of Finance, key figure in economic policy, later Prime Minister)

Joe Clark – Politics (Prime Minister for a brief period and later active in diplomacy)

Stephen Lewis – Diplomacy (Canadian ambassador to the United Nations, advocate for HIV/AIDS awareness)

Jane Urquhart – Literature (author of The Stone Carvers and other notable novels)

Avril Lavigne – Music (pop-punk singer who gained international fame in the early 2000s)

Douglas Coupland – Literature (author of Generation X, explored modern cultural trends)

Jean-Luc Brassard – Sports (freestyle skier, Olympic gold medalist)

Adrienne Clarkson – Politics (broadcaster and journalist, later Governor General of Canada)

Kim Campbell – Politics (first female Prime Minister of Canada, served briefly in 1993)

Jacques Parizeau – Politics (Premier of Quebec, major figure in the Quebec sovereignty movement)

Sandra Schmirler – Sports (curling champion, multiple world championships and Olympic gold medalist)

Louise Arbour – Law (Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Tribunals, later Supreme Court Justice)