Ottawa, Tuesday, March 24:  The Victoria Forum hosted a timely and thought-provoking dialogue on the Canada–U.S. Relationship, highlighting the role of Civil Society as a Source of Resilience, The session was presented in partnership with the Canadian International Council (CIC) and held at the Global Centre for Pluralism.

At a time when political tensions and increasing polarization dominate public discourse, the session offered a meaningful opportunity to reflect on a potential solution: the role of civil society in strengthening trust, resilience, and cooperation across borders.

Moderated by Melanie Walker (Executive Director of the CIC), the panel included Ava Hill (former Chief of the Six Nations), Andrew Chunilall (CEO of Community Foundations Canada) and Andrew Parkin (Executive Director of the Environics Institute). The discussion explored how relationships between universities, Indigenous nations, philanthropic organizations, media, civic institutions, and community leaders can continue to sustain the Canada–U.S. relationship – even during periods of uncertainty and strain.

Speakers and participants reflected on the importance of moving beyond reaction and toward relationship-building, asking how we can create the conditions for trust, mutual respect, and long-term collaboration. The conversation touched on issues of democratic resilience, pluralism, Indigenous perspectives, institutional trust, and the need to imagine new systems rooted in dialogue rather than division.

Several themes emerged throughout the session:

• the importance of civil society as connective tissue in moments of political fracture
• the need to build relational trust across differences
• the value of creating spaces where dialogue can happen in a spirit of pluralism and shared humanity
• and the opportunity to strengthen cross-border collaboration through more intentional and enduring networks

One participant described the event as an example of “seeding hope and securing a better future through cross-border networks and relationship-building.” That reflection captured the spirit of the afternoon: a recognition that even in times of tension, there is meaningful work to be done — and many people ready to do it.

The session also raised important questions for the future:
– How do we continue building a Canada–U.S. relationship grounded not only in policy, but in people, trust, and shared civic responsibility?
– How do we create systems that are more adaptive, inclusive, and resilient?
– And how can dialogue itself become part of the infrastructure for a stronger future?

These are questions the Victoria Forum will continue to explore in the months ahead, including at the Victoria Forum 2026, where themes of democratic renewal, civic resilience, and pluralism remain central to the conversation.

We are grateful to all who contributed their insight, energy, and presence to this gathering – and we look forward to continuing the dialogue together.