CanArb Week 2020: Closing Ceremonies
Carol Trudell
It ain’t over until the lawyers sing! The first-ever CanArbWeek came to an end on Friday, September 25, after numerous informative and exciting presentations. To commemorate the week’s ending, attendees were treated to impressive musical performances and a prize draw.
The closing ceremonies began with remarks from the co-chairs, Janet Walker (Professor, Osgoode Hall Law School and Arbitration Place ) and Paul Tichauer (Independent Arbitrator & Chair of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrator’s Canada Branch). The co-chairs thanked all the sponsors, presenters, and the technical support team, and noted the vigour of the presentation given and discussion had. Then, all-lawyer blues band Oui B. Jamon played a few songs live over Zoom. If you missed the performance, Oui B. Jamon posted their set on the band’s Facebook page, linked here https://www.facebook.com/OuiBJamon.
Shortly after, attendees were invited to network in Zoom breakout rooms. After conversation, The Kitchen Party Band also preformed, fittingly from their kitchens at home and offices. The ensemble covered songs by Joni Mitchell and Great Big Sea in folk style.
Although the week was held virtually, it was clear the spirit of the arbitration community remains strong despite the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The presentations showed amply that the Canadian arbitration community is prepared to adapt and lead as Zoom hearings, growing diversity, and regulatory developments fundamentally alter the arbitration landscape. On behalf of CJCA, we were grateful to attend and report on the week. We would like to thank the co-chairs, presenters, and sponsors for running such excellent events, and look forward to many more CanArbWeeks in the future. Remember to check out all our other posts about the week on CJCA’s blog.