Canadian Public Health Association | Association Canadienne de Santé Publique
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Canadian Public Health Association

Advocacy activities

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As the independent national voice for public health in Canada, CPHA continues to advocate for evidence-informed policies that promote health equity and protect the well-being of all people in Canada. Below is a summary of our recent advocacy activities.

  • Ontario Bill 5: CPHA and the Ontario Public Health Association expressed profound concern over Ontario’s proposed Bill 5, the Protect Ontario by Unleashing Our Economy Act, 2025. This sweeping omnibus legislation poses significant risks to public health, environmental protection, and Indigenous rights across the province.
  • Alberta Bill 55: CPHA and the Alberta Public Health Association expressed concern about Alberta’s Health Statutes Amendment Act, 2025 (Bill 55) that further consolidated control over public health under the direct authority of the provincial government.
  • 2025 Federal Election Factsheets: With the launch of the federal election, CPHA released a series of 15 factsheet outlining key public health priorities for the next government. The factsheets are designed to be a tool for public health professionals and community partners to engage with candidates and advocate for evidence-informed policy.
  • A Coherent Approach to the Regulation of Psychoactive Substances: CPHA’s director of policy authored a commentary published by Policy Options entitled A “moonshot” at regulating psychoactive substances for public-health benefits.
  • Addressing the toxic drug crisis: We published a new position statement, Public Health Approaches to the Toxic Drug Crisis, calling for evidence-based policies to save lives.
  • Defending fair trade: We issued a statement opposing the U.S. tariffs on Canadian products, highlighting the potential health and economic impacts.
  • Protecting public health policy: CPHA was granted intervenor status in the legal challenge to Ontario’s Bill 212, which could have significant implications for public health governance.
  • Speaking out against involuntary addictions treatment: We expressed deep concerns about Alberta’s proposed amendments to its Mental Health Act, which could expand involuntary treatment without sufficient safeguards.
  • Defending evidence-based decision-making: We protested the politicization of Alberta’s COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force report, emphasizing the need for public health to remain grounded in science and transparency.
  • Support for Diverse Realities of Gender Identity: CPHA supported the Government of Canada stance against policies, like the recent U.S. executive order, that erase the diverse realities of gender identity. 
  • Support for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: In response to growing political backlash in both the United States and Canada, CPHA reaffirmed its commitment to initiatives that uplift structurally disadvantaged communities, challenge systemic barriers, and ensure everyone has access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
  • Countering Mis- and Dis-information: CPHA stressed the importance of combating misinformation by amplifying trusted, evidence-based sources. Educating the public, improving digital literacy, and fostering open dialogue are key to addressing this issue.
  • Climate Action: CPHA emphasized the strong connection between climate solutions and healthier communities. Reducing pollution and mitigating climate-related health risks through cleaner energy transitions benefit everyone, particularly future generations. We urged policymakers and individuals to prioritize sustainable actions that safeguard both the planet and public health.
  • Intimate Partner Violence (IPV): CPHA called for a comprehensive approach to address IPV, including prevention programs, accessible support services, and policies that address systemic inequities. Public health must play a key role in breaking the cycle of violence and fostering safe, healthy relationships.