By Sean Delaney
As the year comes to a close, Member of Parliament Judy Sgro speaks candidly about the concerns she has been hearing across Humber River–Black Creek — concerns that go beyond day-to-day politics and speak directly to the future of the country.
“When our sovereignty started to feel threatened, people really felt that,” Sgro said. “They were worried about what might happen to Canada, to their children and grandchildren, and to the future of our country.”
Those concerns played a major role in her decision to run again. Sgro says she was deeply encouraged by constituents who urged her to continue, and she remains grateful for the trust placed in her.
“It’s a tremendous honour to be their voice now more than ever,” she said, noting that experience and commitment matter during uncertain times. “People want to know that someone is prepared to put in the time and effort to fight for them.”
Much of that work this past year involved supporting local businesses facing pressure from international trade uncertainty, particularly related to U.S. tariffs. Sgro spent time visiting businesses she had not previously met, listening directly to their concerns and learning how they were coping.
“I wanted them to know their government is there for them,” she said. “As the local representative, I’ll do anything I can to help them through these difficult times.”
That message was reinforced through collaboration, including hosting federal Minister Rechie Valdez alongside the Emery Village BIA. For Sgro, it was important that business owners saw government not as distant or partisan, but as present and responsive.
“I don’t like saying ‘Liberal government,’” she explained. “I prefer to say ‘government.’ Canadians want us to work together — forget party labels and focus on helping businesses survive and people keep their jobs.”
Sgro acknowledged that the year ahead will likely be challenging. Rising costs, global instability, and economic pressures will continue to affect families and employers alike, making it even more important for governments to respond quickly and thoughtfully.
Another pillar of her work remains the constituency office itself — a place many residents turn to first when they need help. Whether assisting newcomers, renewing passports, navigating federal programs, or supporting people who have lost their jobs, Sgro says the office is where real impact happens.
“That’s where it all begins,” she said. “I take the message back to Ottawa, but it comes from the work my staff do every single day.”
She also highlighted the significant federal investments flowing into the riding, pointing to recent multi-million-dollar support for local steel and manufacturing firms as just one example of efforts to keep people employed and industries stable.
“These investments matter,” she said. “They help workers, families, and entire communities weather difficult periods.”
“People need to know they’re not facing these challenges alone — and that their government is standing with them.”
Despite the challenges, Sgro remains optimistic — not because the road ahead will be easy, but because she believes Canadians are responding with resilience, cooperation, and determination. For Humber River–Black Creek, the months ahead may test patience and resolve, but with steady leadership and a focus on practical support, she believes the community is well positioned to face what comes next — together.