July 3, 2018

Governor General to Invest 27 Recipients into the Order of Canada
during a ceremony at the Citadelle of Québec

OTTAWA—Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, will invest 5 Officers and 22 Members into the Order of Canada during a ceremony at the Citadelle of Québec, on Thursday, July 5, 2018, at 10:30 a.m (EDT).The ceremony will be streamed online at www.gg.ca.

About the Order of Canada
Created in 1967, the Order of Canada, one of our country’s highest civilian honours, recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. Close to 7 000 people from all sectors of society have been invested into the Order. Their contributions are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and have taken to heart the motto of the Order: DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM (“They desire a better country”). Appointments are made by the governor general on the recommendation of the Advisory Council for the Order of Canada. For more information about the Order of Canada or to nominate someone, visit www.gg.ca/honours.

A schedule for the investiture ceremony, the list of recipients with citations, and a backgrounder on the Order of Canada are attached. 

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Media interested in covering the ceremony are asked to confirm their attendance with the Rideau Hall Press Office, and must arrive no later than 10:15 a.m. on the day of the ceremony. Accreditation must be shown at the Citadelle gate (Côte de la Citadelle, near the St. Louis Gate) prior to accessing the Ballroom via the administration door.

Media information:

Sara Régnier-McKellar
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-993-2569 (office)
613-301-2465 (cell)
sara.regnier-mckellar@gg.ca

Follow GGJuliePayette and RideauHall on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

 

CEREMONY SCHEDULE

Members of the media are asked to observe the following schedule:

9:45 a.m.:	Media arrive at the Citadelle of Québec
10:30 a.m.:	Ceremony begins
	The Governor General speaks
	The Governor General presents the insignia of the Order of Canada
11:00 a.m.:	Interviews with recipients

 

RECIPIENTS

OFFICERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA

Lee Maracle, O.C.	Toronto, Ont.
Émile Martel, O.C.	Montréal, Que.
Sylvain Moineau, O.C.	Québec, Que.
Michèle Stanton-Jean, O.C., O.Q.	Outremont, Que.
Denis Villeneuve, O.C.	Montréal, Que.

 

MEMBERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA

Alain Caron, C.M.	Boucherville, Que.
Léonie Couture, C.M., C.Q.	Montréal, Que.
Michel Dallaire, C.M., C.Q.	Québec, Que.
Lise Gaboury-Diallo, C.M.	Winnipeg, Man.
François Godbout, C.M.	Dunham and Montréal, Que.
Rick Green, C.M., O.Ont.	Waterdown, Ont.
Sibylla Hesse, C.M.	Dunham and Montréal, Que.
Margo Kane, C.M.	Vancouver, B.C.
François Mario Labbé, C.M., C.Q.	Montréal, Que.
Catherine Anne Martin, C.M.	Blind Bay, N.S.
Peter Gould McAuslan, C.M.	Montréal, Que.
Nancy Neamtan, C.M., O.Q.	Montréal, Que.
Michel Noël, C.M., C.Q.	Saint-Damien, Que.
Madeleine Paquin, C.M.	Montréal, Que.
Marcelline Picard-Kanapé, C.M., C.Q.	Pessamit, Que.
Jane Ash Poitras, C.M.	Edmonton, Alta.
Judy Rogers, C.M.	Vancouver, B.C.
Beverley Noel Salmon, C.M., O.Ont.	Toronto, Ont.
Claude Snow, C.M., O.N.B.	Caraquet, N.B.
William Earl Stafford, C.M.	Winnipeg, Man.
Basil Leo Stewart, C.M.	Summerside, P.E.I
Lorne Waldman, C.M.	Toronto, Ont.

 

RECIPIENTS’ CITATIONS 

OFFICERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA 

Lee Maracle, O.C.
Toronto, Ontario

Si’yam Lee Maracle is recognized as one of the most influential Indigenous voices in Canada’s literary landscape. A traditional teacher, Elder and instructor at the University of Toronto, she was among the first Indigenous authors to be published in Canada in the early 1970s. Comprising numerous acclaimed fiction and non-fiction books, as well as poetry anthologies, her work touches upon gender, sexuality and cultural relations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. She has launched a dialogue that has been instrumental in promoting social justice in Canada.

Émile Martel, O.C.
Montréal, Quebec

Throughout his careers as both a diplomat and author, and especially in his volunteer work, Émile Martel has promoted and expanded our cultural treasures and awakened our social conscience. Thanks to his many publications and translations of English and Spanish, this award-winning poet has had a far-reaching impact in defence of freedom of expression and culture in Canada and abroad. He long served as president of the Centre québécois du P.E.N. international and the Académie des lettres du Québec.

Sylvain Moineau, O.C.
Québec, Quebec

Microbiologist Sylvain Moineau’s passion and spirit of collaboration have led to breakthrough scientific advances in his field. A professor at Université Laval, he curates the world’s largest collection of bacteriophages and is a global expert in this regard. He has played a leading role in understanding bacterial viruses and the CRISPR-Cas systems involved in a genome-editing technology. An esteemed collaborator and mentor, he is able to simplify the concepts behind the science and his research in order to convey his enthusiasm to the general public.

Michèle Stanton-Jean, O.C., O.Q.
Outremont, Quebec

Michèle Stanton-Jean has devoted her career to advancing social issues. A historian by training, she is known for her pioneering work on the history of women in Quebec and for her efforts to promote adult education. After having held a number of federal and provincial positions, she served as chair of UNESCO’s International Bioethics Committee, playing a defining role in the drafting and adoption of the Universal Declaration on Bioethics and Human Rights. A strong advocate for integrity, she currently serves as chair of the Fonds de recherche du Québec’s joint committee on the responsible conduct of research.

Denis Villeneuve, O.C.
Montréal, Quebec

Audiences and critics alike consider him a cinematic genius; Denis Villeneuve himself would say he is a professional dreamer. His films depict the human condition. At times contemplatively, at times with dizzying speed and intensity, but always intuitively, he transports moviegoers to the very depths of his characters. His camera and his pen push the limits of drama and science fiction: Polytechnique, Incendies, Arrival and Blade Runner 2049 are just a few of the titles brought to the big screen by this aesthete lauded as one of the best directors of his generation.

MEMBERS OF THE ORDER OF CANADA

Alain Caron, C.M.
Boucherville, Quebec

For the past 40 years, bassist Alain Caron has been making a remarkable contribution to the contemporary jazz fusion universe. Having begun his career with jazz ensemble UZEB in the 1980s, he went on to perform on national and international stages, establishing a reputation as a six-string electric bass virtuoso. Today, he is known for his unique slap technique, pointed lyricism and clarity of notes. The head of the Université de Montréal’s master’s program in jazz performance and composition, he is a highly regarded master and guest professor.

Léonie Couture, C.M., C.Q.
Montréal, Quebec

A pioneer of relational health, Léonie Couture is the founder and executive director of Herstreet. Driven by a humanist and feminist vision, she has devoted nearly 40 years to giving a voice to those experiencing poverty and homelessness. In addition to the housing and meals offered by the organization’s three shelters in Montréal, she provides care, support and a sense of security to enable women to heal their wounds and ease their suffering. Her ongoing efforts empower more than 1 000 women each year to overcome difficult situations.

Michel Dallaire, C.M., C.Q.
Québec, Quebec

Generous by nature, Michel Dallaire is improving the lives of others. An experienced businessman in construction and real property, he tripled the Cominar Real Estate Investment Trust portfolio and became a respected fundraising advisor. As CEO of the trust, he created a culture of philanthropy within his company and set an example through his ongoing commitment to various charitable organizations. His primary residence was transformed into a respite home for children with severe disabilities or who are terminally ill, so that they can receive the best care while surrounded by family.

Lise Gaboury-Diallo, C.M.
Winnipeg, Manitoba

Lise Gaboury-Diallo is an important figure in Western French-Canadian literature. She is a full professor in the French department at Université de Saint-Boniface, focusing her research on the literary works and social engagement of Canadian women. An award-winning author, she has written several poetry and short story collections and plays that reflect her unique experiences. Committed to the French language and culture, she tirelessly promotes Francophone minority communities and is known for mentoring young authors.

François Godbout, C.M. and Sibylla Hesse, C.M.
Dunham and Montréal, Quebec

Devoted to the well-being of others, François Godbout and Sibylla Hesse embody generosity and dedication. Through their foundation, this engaged couple supports several charitable organizations involved in improving the lives of youth and seniors, controlling diseases and eradicating poverty, and promoting arts and culture. In addition to their philanthropy, they are committed to promoting research into the diagnosis and treatment of myalgic encephalomyelitis, more commonly known as chronic fatigue syndrome.

Rick Green, C.M., O.Ont.
Waterdown, Ontario

Rick Green uses laughter to entertain and to educate. A comic actor, writer and producer, he is known for his work with the Frantics comedy troupe and on such award-winning television series as “The Red Green Show”, “History Bites” and “Prisoners of Gravity.” Since being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), he uses his humour and passion to advocate on behalf of those with the condition. He has created highly acclaimed communication tools to dispel myths and has provided ADHD-friendly solutions for millions of teens and adults worldwide.

Margo Kane, C.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia

Margo Kane’s devotion to honouring Indigenous performance is both empowering and engaging. An interdisciplinary artist, she has performed on stage, film and television, and has written works reflective of the Indigenous experience in Canada. Her influential solo work, Moonlodge, which blends song, dance and oral storytelling, has toured throughout Canada and abroad for more than a decade. Founder of Full Circle: First Nations Performance and the Talking Stick Festival, she has provided opportunities for many artists to celebrate and take pride in their rich language, culture and art forms.

François Mario Labbé, C.M., C.Q.
Montréal, Quebec

For the past 40 years, François Mario Labbé has dedicated his career to promoting our greatest musicians internationally. Founder of Analekta, Canada’s largest independent classical music record label, he showcases Canadian talent, much to the delight of music lovers everywhere. He has also produced a significant number of shows on some of the biggest stages and has launched the careers of several artists. A trusted advisor, he has played a key role in music governance through his involvement with SODEC, ADISQ and the Canadian Music Council.

Catherine Anne Martin, C.M.
Blind Bay, Nova Scotia

Passionate storyteller Catherine Anne Martin holds a unique place in the history of Canadian and Indigenous cinema. As the first Mi’kmaw filmmaker from the Atlantic region, she has brought the stories of Indigenous people to life onscreen through her significant body of work and award-winning documentaries. She is an important advocate for Indigenous arts, education, language and human rights, and has strengthened Mi’kmaw, Maliseet, Innu and Inuit culture across Canada as a teacher, facilitator and mentor.

Peter Gould McAuslan, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec

Peter McAuslan crafted a successful business at the vanguard of the microbrewery industry in Quebec. He founded McAuslan Brewing, known for its quality products and strong relationship with the local community. He has been a long-standing patron of the arts, exemplified by his championing of the St. Ambroise Fringe Festival, the Pop Montreal Music Festival and the Montreal World Film Festival. He also played a leading role in preserving the city’s Scottish heritage by creating a research chair in Canadian-Scottish studies at McGill University.

Nancy Neamtan, C.M., O.Q.
Montréal, Quebec

Nancy Neamtan is a champion for strong and prosperous communities in Quebec and internationally. The co-founder and former president of the Chantier de l’économie sociale, she has advocated for a social economy and more inclusive and democratic community economic development. Her work has had a direct impact in stimulating job creation, community revitalization and the development of sustainable local enterprise. Actively engaged at both the national and international levels, she is devoted to various causes, notably the fight against poverty and access to work and education.

Michel Noël, C.M., C.Q.
Saint-Damien, Quebec

Michel Noël has been instrumental in promoting Indigenous cultural heritage and understanding in Canada and abroad. An award-winning Métis writer and storyteller of Algonquin ancestry, he has used his writing to reinforce cultural identity among Indigenous youth, and to share Indigenous culture with all audiences. Known for his novels and series for young readers, he has written on a diverse array of cultural facets, from retelling oral histories, mythology and legends, to describing handicrafts and culinary tradition.

Madeleine Paquin, C.M.
Montréal, Quebec

A daring business leader, Madeleine Paquin is actively involved in all aspects of the marine industry. Focused on reducing the environmental footprint, she helms Logistec, a corporation operating in the marine and environmental industries across North America, from the Arctic to the Everglades. Beyond the shoreline, she is very active in governance and is renowned for promoting women’s participation in business. She also gives of her time and energy to charitable causes, including brain cancer research.

Marcelline Picard-Kanapé, C.M., C.Q.
Pessamit, Quebec

Marcelline Picard-Kanapé is a champion for Indigenous education. The first Innu to obtain a teaching certification in Quebec, she served as an educator and school administrator in Innu communities across the province over the course of four decades. She was a strong advocate for the promotion of Indigenous language in education, which led to the standardization of the Innu-Montagnais language. The first woman to join the Pessamit Innu Nation’s band council and to be elected chief, she has inspired new generations of Indigenous women leaders.

Jane Ash Poitras, C.M.
Edmonton, Alberta

Jane Ash Poitras’s unique artistic vision gives voice to Indigenous people in Canada by encompassing many diverse topics and themes. An internationally celebrated visual artist of Cree descent, she has created contemporary mixed media collages that are infused with powerful social and cultural meaning. Her work has been showcased in solo and group exhibitions and in numerous public and private collections across Canada and around the world. Affiliated with the University of Alberta, she also speaks regularly at universities and galleries throughout North America and abroad.

Judy Rogers, C.M.
Vancouver, British Columbia

Judy Rogers is a leader in municipal government innovation. In her former role as city manager of Vancouver, she led the city through an extraordinarily dynamic period of growth and helped improve coordination between levels of government and civil society. She envisioned the Vancouver Agreement, an urban development initiative that seeks to address economic, social, health and safety issues. She also played a key role in the city’s bid to host the 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympics, and later served on its organizing committee.

Beverley Noel Salmon, C.M., O.Ont.
Toronto, Ontario

Beverley Salmon is an exemplary model of civic engagement. As Toronto’s first Black female councillor, she advocated for more inclusive policies and practices within municipal government. Her extensive career comprises work with the Toronto Board of Education, the Urban Alliance on Race Relations and the Ontario Status of Women Council. Notably, she has been a dedicated champion for the social and educational well-being of Black communities in the city. Although officially retired, she remains an active volunteer, role model and mentor to members of her local community.

Claude Snow, C.M., O.N.B.
Caraquet, New Brunswick

A champion of social justice, Claude Snow has been working for nearly half a century to defend the rights of the poor. With creativity, empathy and perseverance, he leads a fight to combat inequality and works tirelessly for the good of others. Through intervention, education and inspiring dedication, he supports vulnerable populations seeking to know their rights and directs them to the services they need. The author of several publications and studies, he advocates for improved social conditions throughout New Brunswick’s Acadian Peninsula.

William Earl Stafford, C.M.
Winnipeg, Manitoba

Earl Stafford is a music icon in Manitoba. A pianist and conductor, he served for more than 25 years as the music director of the illustrious Royal Winnipeg Ballet. He is renowned in Canada, having worked with many orchestras across the country, notably with the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra as its artistic director. Throughout his career, he has been committed to the preservation of live musical accompaniment for dancers and has been an enthusiastic supporter of new and contemporary music and of Canadian composers.

Basil Leo Stewart, C.M.
Summerside, Prince Edward Island

Basil Stewart’s leadership has contributed to the economic vitality and growth of both his community and province. Mayor for more than 25 years, he oversaw the successful establishment and expansion of new businesses and infrastructures in Summerside—a legacy for generations to come. Throughout his tenure, he served on various regional and national committees, notably as president of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. He continues to share his knowledge as a member of the National Capital Commission’s board of directors.

Lorne Waldman, C.M.
Toronto, Ontario

Lorne Waldman is one of Canada’s foremost immigration and refugee lawyers. He has frequently appeared before the courts, often pro bono, to successfully challenge such high-profile cases as wearing niqabs during citizenship oaths, restoring health care for refugees and striking down the use of security certificates. He has also volunteered with the Canadian Bar Association and is a founding member and first president of the Canadian Association for Refugee Lawyers.

ORDER OF CANADA BACKGROUNDER 

Established in 1967 by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Order of Canada is the cornerstone of the Canadian Honours System, and recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation. The Order recognizes people in all sectors of Canadian society. Their contributions are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and made a difference to this country.

Motto and Levels

The Order of Canada’s motto is DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM(“They desire a better country”). Her Majesty The Queen is the Sovereign of the Order, and the governor general is the chancellor and Principal Companion of the Order.

Companion – Post-nominal: C.C.
recognizes national pre-eminence or international service or achievement;

Officer – Post-nominal: O.C.
recognizes national service or achievement; and

Member – Post-nominal: C.M.
recognizes outstanding contributions at the local or regional level or in a special field of activity.

Insignia Description

The insignia of the Order is a stylized snowflake of six points, with a red annulus at its centre which bears a stylized maple leaf circumscribed with the motto of the Order, DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM (“They desire a better country”), surmounted by the Royal Crown. It is struck in fine silver and is composed of three individual pieces: the snowflake, annulus and maple leaf. The colour is added by hand through a unique application of opaque and translucent enamel.

The design of the insignia of the Order of Canada dates from 1967, and is credited to Bruce Beatty, C.M., S.O.M., C.D. The technical drawings used by the Royal Canadian Mint in thisnew generation of the insigniawere developed by the Canadian Heraldic Authority at the Chancellery of Honours, part of the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General. The insignia is manufactured by the Mint at its Ottawa facility.

Eligibility

All Canadians are eligible for the Order of Canada, with the exception of federal and provincial politicians and judges while in office. The Order’s constitution permits non-Canadians to be considered for honorary appointments. Members of the Royal Family, governors general and their spouses are appointed in the extraordinary category. There are no posthumous appointments. 

Officers and Members may be elevated within the Order in recognition of further achievement, based on continued exceptional or extraordinary service to Canada. Usually, promotions are considered five years after the first appointment.

Nominations

Any person or group is welcome to nominate a deserving individual as a candidate for appointment to the Order of Canada. Appointments are made on the recommendations of the Advisory Council for the Order of Canada, an independent council chaired by the chief justice of Canada. Members of the Advisory Council on the Order of Canada reflect the diversity and excellence in Canadian society. Certain members are appointed by virtue of their office; others are appointed for a fixed term to achieve a balanced representation of the various regions of the country.