The Bell Lecture
The Dick, Ruth, and Judy Bell Lecture is an annual lecture that honours the contributions of individuals to the political and public life of Canada. It was established by Ruth Bell, a political science alumna who was an educator and champion for women’s and children’s rights in honour of her husband Dick Bell and her step-daughter Judy Bell.
Speakers may include individuals who have been active in politics or public service or distinguished scholars in political science. The lectures themselves are generally devoted to discussions of political subjects, either in a present-day or historical context. Scholars and graduate students are encouraged to attend and use the lectures as a basis for further work in Canadian studies.
The Bell Lecture is hosted by the Faculty of Public and Global Affairs.
Bell Lecture News
Learn about our Bell Lectures
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Bell Lecture 2026 with Chrystia Freeland Advocates for a Strong Ukraine
The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Canada’s former Deputy Prime Minister, embodied her new role as a special advisor to Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky by offering an impassioned argument for Ukraine’s war…
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Bell Lecture 2025: Navigating Canada’s Uncertain Future
The Honourable Lisa Raitt described 2025 as “a hinge moment in history” as she spoke of Canada’s future in an oft-times personal speech at the…
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Chardi Kala – Jagmeet Singh Advocates defiant optimism
By Eddie Benhin Hundreds of people from all backgrounds packed the Carleton University Dominion-Chalmers Centre in downtown Ottawa to hear NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh speak…
