After two years of operating virtually, we’re excited to return to a hybrid format. Join us in attending CIRA’s biggest event of the year in-person in Ottawa, or virtually—however you choose.
First, let’s learn the basics of Canadians Connected!
What is it? CIRA’s symposium and annual general meeting (AGM)
When is it? Thursday, September 15 at 12:30 p.m. ET
How can you attend? Virtually or in-person in Ottawa at the Infinity Convention Center (2901 Gibford Dr.)
What’s this year’s theme? Remotely controlled: how the future of digital life is being threatened by surveillance capitalism
What is surveillance capitalism? It describes the practice of companies gathering personal information about you— including your behaviours and interests—and profiting from this data. CIRA champions greater online privacy for Canadians and we invite you to join us for a compelling session on this important topic that is relevant to all of us. Learn more about this year’s theme.
A meeting for members and internet enthusiasts
We welcome anyone who is interested in this topic and our industry to join us. However, non-members can only view the event. Only eligible members can fully participate by asking questions, commenting and voting* on motions and engage with other members via the chat.
Not a member and have a .CA domain? What are you waiting for? Become one! Don’t have a .CA? Get one!
New for this year!
The CIRA team has been working hard to improve and bring together the virtual and in-person experience. Members attending in-person will be using our webcast platform to ask questions and vote, just like virtual participants—be sure to bring a laptop or mobile device no matter how you participate! Read our AGM guide so you know what to expect.
Now what we’ve run through what Canadians Connected is, here are five reasons you should attend:
1) Exclusive learning opportunities
Hear from our keynote technology activist, journalist and author, Cory Doctorow. Plus, get your questions answered during the Q&A segment moderated by innovation and technology leader, Amber Mac. This dynamic duo will discuss the engaging and multilayered topic of surveillance capitalism, along with the dangers of high-tech giants capturing and commodifying your personal data. Read about our speakers.
2) Learn more about CIRA and how we’re improving Canada’s internet
CIRA’s President and CEO, Byron Holland, and Jill Kowalchuk, Chair of CIRA’s Board of Directors, will fill you in on the state of Canada’s internet, our accomplishments from the past year and how we are working to enable a trusted internet for Canadians. Members also get the opportunity to ask CIRA leaders questions during the ask-me-anything (AMA) segment! Check out the agenda.
3) Get involved in CIRA’s governance (Members only)
Your role as a CIRA member is critical to the success of the annual meeting (especially during the AGM!) and one of the best ways to be an active participant in CIRA’s governance. You can use your voice and vote to directly contribute to CIRA’s operations and governance; this is where you’ll have the most impact towards CIRA’s mission. Read about what you’ll be voting on this year.
4) Support an important cause
CIRA will donate $10 to United Way Canada on behalf of every person who attends Canadians Connected. Just by showing up, you will help support your local community in a time when it’s needed more than ever.
5) And last, but not least… it’s free!
Got your attention now? CIRA member or not, Canadians Connected is completely free to attend! Whether you’re attending in-person or by webcast keep your eye on your inbox the day before and day of the event, for information on how to access the webcast platform.
Register today and we’ll see you on September 15th!
Already registered? Check out the Member and AGM resources listed below. This information will help you prepare to fully participate.
2021 AGM minutes
2022 Report to members
FY22 Financial statements
Agenda
Motions
AGM Guide
Code of conduct
Health protocols (in-person attendance)
* To vote in the annual general meeting (AGM), you must have been a CIRA member at least 21 days prior to the AGM (end of day August 25, 2022) and continue to be a member at the start of the AGM.
As the Manager of Membership Relations at CIRA, Julie manages the development, planning and delivery of CIRA’s membership and Member-related activities and engagement. She strives to create opportunities for Members and consumers, and partners to share, connect, and learn and get the most out of their relationship with CIRA.
