05/10/2026
Mother’s Day, celebrated this year on May 10, 2026, is a time to honour all who nurture, support, and protect, in all the beautiful ways that love, family, and care take shape.
Do you know how Mother’s Day started in Canada? We followed an initiative that began in the United States, led by Anna Jarvis in 1908 to commemorate her mother, a peace activist. The day was first known as Mother’s Day for Peace. In Canada, it was first observed on May 9, 1914, marked by church services and the wearing of a white carnation, before becoming more commercialized in the 1920s.
Since 1914, our understanding of motherhood has grown and evolved. It is no longer defined by biology, gender norms, or tradition. It lives in every act of care, resilience, and advocacy, from q***r moms and trans parents, to Two-Spirit caregivers, chosen families, grandparents, aunts, mentors, and community builders.
We also recognize that this day can carry many emotions, for those navigating loss, longing, complicated relationships, or paths not taken. There is space for all of those experiences here.
To all who show up with compassion and strength: your care is real, and it matters. Your kindness and resilience are felt every day. You are a light in our lives.
Let’s take this day to lift each other up and celebrate all the incredible people who nurture with heart and soul, whatever that celebration looks like for you.
Happy Mother’s Day.
United Sisters Equity Committee
