November 5, 2024 — In From the Wood Chair to the Green Chair, former Toronto-Danforth MP Dennis Mills provides a behind-the-scenes look at a time when Canadian politicians led with vision, passion, and a deep commitment to service.
Serving in Parliament from 1988 to 2004, Mills captures the energy and impact of his people-focused approach. His memoir is both a reflection on his years in office and a call to action for Canadians eager to make a difference in politics today.
Mills recounts his role in major events that left a lasting mark on Canadian culture and policy. Among these is his orchestration of Pope John Paul II’s 2002 visit to Toronto, a remarkable feat that drew over 800,000 young Catholics from around the world to Downsview Park.
A year later, Mills organized the 2003 SARS benefit concert, headlined by the Rolling Stones. This historic event—Canada’s largest-ever concert—helped lift Toronto out of an economic downturn triggered by the SARS outbreak, reviving the city’s spirit and boosting its economy. The concert, broadcast globally, was a tribute to Toronto’s resilience in crisis and the vibrant spirit of a great city on an international stage.
The memoir also highlights Mills’ commitment to Canadian farmers, particularly through his work on the Family Farm Tribute, which brought national attention to the importance of family farms and inspired the Chrétien government to increase rural support.
Mills’ advocacy for rural Canada came at a time when these communities were often overlooked, underscoring his genuine commitment to all Canadians. His leadership as Chair of the House of Commons Sport Committee was similarly influential, resulting in a groundbreaking report that shaped Canadian Olympic and sports funding policy—a framework that has supported Canadian athletes ever since.
One of the most compelling themes in From the Wood Chair to the Green Chair is Mills’ reflection on how politics has changed. He contrasts his era, when MPs were empowered to champion diverse causes, with today’s more restricted, party-aligned political culture. Mills argues that, under the current government, MPs often follow the party line rather than independently advocating for constituents.
Mills draws on a lifetime of public service in this critique, having first served as a senior aide to Pierre Elliott Trudeau and later as a Member of Parliament. He was a close friend of former Prime Minister John Turner, both of whom believed in the nobility of Parliament and the role of MPs to bring about change.
The book opens with a foreword by former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien, who praises Mills’ dedication and achievements, noting his work ethic and talent for uniting Canadians through meaningful initiatives. “The lessons he shares in this book can inspire business executives, any public leader, and all parliamentarians alike,” Chrétien writes, “and they confirm that a person can serve and have one hell of a career.” Chrétien’s words set a powerful tone, emphasizing Mills’ legacy and the value of true public service.
Throughout the book, Mills expresses heartfelt gratitude for the many people who contributed to his success. Rather than focusing solely on his own accomplishments, he acknowledges the staff, volunteers, and officials who worked alongside him on countless projects. He even includes photos and an extensive index to celebrate their contributions. This spirit of collaboration and recognition gives Mills’ story an added layer of authenticity, underscoring his belief in public service as a team effort.
For young Canadians disillusioned with today’s political climate, From the Wood Chair to the Green Chair is a refreshing reminder of what public service can accomplish. Mills’ journey reveals what’s possible when MPs have the freedom to think creatively, take risks, and advocate genuinely for their constituents.
Ultimately, Wood Chair to the Green Chair: A Memoir is a must-read for anyone considering a career in politics or frustrated by the lack of inspiring leadership in Ottawa today. With uncommon authenticity, Mills’ memoir captures an era where MPs didn’t just hold office—they made a difference. This book reminds us that, at its best, public service can be a powerful force for good.
Dennis Mill’s From the Wood Chair to the Green Chair: A Memoir, published by Big Sky Publishing, is available at Ben McNally Books.
Republished with permission