Ep 9 - Congressional Affairs And Canada - US Relations

In this 9th episode of the Field Report, Amy Topshee and Lauren Mannix take you inside the Canadian Embassy in Washington D.C. for a conversation with Wendy Boudreau and Mandy Sheldrake, members of the Congressional and Intergovernmental Affairs section. Wendy and Mandy shed light on the purpose of their team and how it is unique among the many embassies in D.C., clarify common misunderstandings about the dynamics of Canada-U.S. relations, and emphasize the importance of proactive advocacy to ensure that U.S. lawmakers appreciate the mutual benefits of this bilateral relationship. Wendy Boudreau is a Congressional Liaison Officer at the Canadian Embassy in D.C, on a rotational position as part of the Canadian Foreign Service. Mandy Sheldrake is a Congressional Liaison Officer at the Canadian Embassy in D.C., she is a Locally Engaged employee who has worked at the Embassy for 18 years. Amy Topshee is an alumnus of the 2022 NATO Field School and 2023 NATO Field School Intern, she is currently working as a Legislative Intern in the British Columbia Legislature. Lauren Mannix is a Research Coordinator for the Conference of Defence Associations Institute and an alumnus of the 2022 NATO Field School.