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May 18, 2007
I am delighted, on behalf of all Canadians, to offer greetings and best wishes to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of Canada, on the occasion of her official Canadian birthday celebrations, this Monday, May 21, Victoria Day.
Although Her Majesty's natural birthday is in April, it has long been the tradition in Canada to mark official celebrations of the Sovereign's birthday on Victoria Day, a date chosen in honour of her great-great-grandmother, Queen Victoria, who was born on May 24, 1819.
The connection between Her Majesty and Canadians is enduring and deeply rooted. Her genuine affection for our country and our people extends beyond her role as Sovereign. Canadians recognize this heartfelt kinship and have reciprocated with great fondness and admiration, and recently were touched to see and hear Her Majesty at Vimy Ridge to commemorate this country's war-time sacrifice, and a defining moment in Canada's history.
This year also marks the 150th anniversary of Queen Victoria’s official selection of Ottawa as the capital of Canada. There are a great many commemorative activities scheduled to take place throughout the year. As Honorary Patron of this celebration, I encourage all of you to take part.
But first, let us wish Her Majesty a very happy birthday!
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Lucie Brosseau
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