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As a lifelong Calgarian and an unwavering advocate for our city in Ottawa, I am both shocked and deeply angered by the revelations that the Calgary Stampede knowingly allowed a culture where sexual assault went unchecked. For decades, members of The Young Canadians entrusted the Calgary Stampede with their dreams, their abilities, and most importantly, their safety. What they received in return was a systematic betrayal.

Yesterday's admission of liability by the Calgary Stampede is not a sign of transparency or accountability. Rather, it is a testament to the lengths the organization was willing to go to sweep these horrific crimes under the rug. It is beyond insulting to the survivors that the Stampede denied any wrongdoing for years, only to admit liability years later.

I unequivocally condemn the Calgary Stampede's negligence and their years of inaction.

Therefore, I will vehemently advocate to my colleagues in the federal government, that any future support for the Calgary Stampede be halted. Not a single taxpayer dollar should support an organization that has shown such blatant disregard for the well-being of our youth. Federal funding should only be reconsidered when the victims themselves feel that genuine accountability and reconciliation have occurred.

The Calgary Stampede must recognize that they have lost the trust of many Calgarians. It is not about enhancing their image or salvaging their brand; it is about ensuring justice, safety, and a commitment to never allowing such heinous acts to happen within their ranks again. Anything less is a disservice to the survivors and all of Calgary.

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