2023 Manion Lecture: Canada’s Story – Census 2021 and the Data that Define Us (TRN4-E20)

Overview

Delivery method

Online

Duration

1.5 hours

Audience

All public servants at all levels

Description

The intersection of data and technology

In 1871, the first census of the Dominion of Canada recorded information on about 3.5 million citizens and provided a historic statistical snapshot of Canada in its earliest days. At the time, its main objective was to determine appropriate representation by population for the nation’s new parliament—decisions that would have direct and lasting consequence for democracy and citizens alike.

Canada’s statistics have never ceased to be an essential barometer for policy and governance, and an essential lens for understanding social and demographic changes. In this digital, data-driven future, the fundamental role of statistics and the essential public function of data have never been more vital. Data is now an integral part of public policy.

The world now lives on data. We can apply data in ways that help us better understand complex problems and make smarter decisions. The intersection of data and technology is leading to greater analytical tools that, properly harnessed, can unlock economic potential, and become Canada’s competitive advantage.

About the 2023 Manion Lecture

The 2023 Manion Lecture will explore, through the lens of data, the link between Canada’s history and the digital future. This flagship event will present a clear portrait of Canada by the numbers, and what they say about our evolving attitudes on topics such as the economy, the climate and Canada’s diverse regions.

Delivering this year’s keynote address, Canada’s Chief Statistician, Anil Arora will speak to how statistics provide the snapshot we need to understand how the Canadian social fabric is changing, and how data can be harnessed to measure progress against challenges like climate change, or commitments to equality, inclusion, and anti-racism. Mr. Arora will make the case for why investing in timely, relevant data is essential for designing policies grounded in reality and calibrated for the future.

Participants will get unique insights on how Canada must progress as a nation by developing better data literacy, legislation and partnerships so that we stop competing internally, and start using data meaningfully to unlock innovation and change lives.

About Anil Arora

Anil Arora was appointed Chief Statistician of Canada in September 2016. Mr. Arora has led significant transformational initiatives throughout his career, with experience and partnerships spanning all three orders of government, the private sector and international organizations including the United Nations and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. He was recognized as one of Canada's Top 25 Immigrants in 2022 by Canadian Immigrant magazine.

Keynote speaker

• Anil Arora, Chief Statistician of Canada

Master of Ceremonies

• Nathalie Laviades Jodouin, Vice-President, Canada School of Public Service
• Vanessa Vermette, Vice-President, Canada School of Public Service

Speakers

• Alika Lafontaine, President, Canadian Medical Association
• Althia Raj, Columnist, Toronto Star
• Chantal Bernier, Co-chair, Global Privacy and Cybersecurity Group, Dentons Canada
• Goldy Hyder, President and Chief Executive Officer, Business Council of Canada
• Verna McGregor, Elder

Moderator

• Taki Sarantakis, President, Canada School of Public Service

Video: 2023 Manion Lecture: Canada's Story – Census 2021 and the Data that Define Us