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The Citadelle, Sunday, September 16, 2007
My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I are delighted to be able to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Order of Canada with you during our stay here at the Citadelle, which has become our workplace for 10 days.
People often ask us where we got the beautiful pins we wear. I’m sure that must happen to you too when you wear your pins. It is always a wonderful opportunity to tell people that it is the Order of Canada and to explain what that means.
One of my goals during this anniversary year is precisely that: to highlight the Order of Canada, its members and their accomplishments. Canada’s honours system deserves to be recognized.
And, as governor general of Canada, I love recognizing our role models, our historic and everyday heroes. I am moved, proud and inspired every time. I think Canadians have much to gain by better understanding the contribution made by the women and men of this country who—through their generosity, ingenuity and knowledge—have helped our country to advance.
I also think it is very important that Canadians understand the nature and significance of our country’s Honours System, which recognizes meritorious acts of many different kinds.
Its history is worthy of great interest.
As many of you know, honours in this country have a complicated and controversial background. Even the Order of Canada had to overcome numerous obstacles before it saw the light of day.
For example, in the course of its evolution even its name wasn’t certain, with possibilities like the Order of the Beaver, the Order of St. Lawrence and the Royal Elizabethan Order being suggested at different times!
As well, when the final proposal for the new Order went to the Cabinet in 1966, it was approved with only one level, not the three we know today. The idea of having three levels was rejected by some cabinet ministers, who thought the idea was elitist.
Today we know better. We know that it is not elitist to celebrate excellence. And when we bestow the Order of Canada on one of our fellow citizens we’re not saying “you’re better than the rest of us.” What we’re really saying is “you reflect the best in all of us.”
You represent a sense of commitment, an ability to excel, caring for others, passion, a desire to dig deeper, and a willingness to see things through and explore knowledge and life in all its dimensions.
Your actions, ideas and accomplishments inspire us, make us proud, and make us realize that we really can make a difference. There is nothing worse than indifference or failing to act.
You who have received the Order of Canada are role models in every field imaginable.
You are a veritable treasure trove of knowledge, ideas, experiences, and actions that benefit the entire country, especially our young people, who want only to follow in your footsteps.
I am very proud to be with you today as we celebrate 40 years of excellence, expertise, ingenuity and altruism.
I would like us to work together to raise awareness about the Order of Canada and incite more nominations.
Let us be the exploring minds who ensure that more of our fellow Canadians are recognized for their accomplishments.
I’m counting on you.