Victoria, Monday, September 26, 2011

It is an honour for Sharon and me to be with you this evening. 

Our sincere thanks go to our hosts, their Honours, Steven and Gwendolyn Point, and Premier Christy Clark. 

Sharon and I have had a full and exciting first day in British Columbia.  Since we arrived, we have met inspiring British Columbians of all walks of life—school children, veterans, First Nations leaders, civic leaders, men and women of the Canadian Forces and their families and Aboriginal students at the University of Victoria. 

Our conversations have been inspiring, challenging both of us to continue striving towards the goal I set when I became governor general—to inspire our country into a smarter, more caring nation. A nation that supports families and children. A nation that reinforces learning and innovation. A nation that encourages philanthropy and volunteerism. In short, a nation where all Canadians can contribute and succeed.

And I know that you, and the others we will meet during our travels around the province, will only confirm the same. How? Let me give you some examples based on what we are going to see, learn and do in the next couple of days.

Sharon and I will visit the Huu-ayt-aht First Nation, and learn how its leaders are working towards self-government on behalf of their people. Sharon will visit an Aboriginal mothers’ center in Vancouver, designed to train, educate and equip young mothers and help them integrate into their community. We will both have the opportunity to learn about some of Vancouver’s innovative programs to assist children, youth and families. 

The commitment that British Columbians have to innovation and learning will be on display as Sharon and I walk across the recently restored Kinsol Trestle, part of the Trans Canada Trail. As we visit the Bamfield Marine Station which provides world-class research infrastructure for marine and coastal scientists from Canadian and International universities.  And as we learn about efforts to transform Vancouver into a greener, more environmentally sustainable, city.

And finally, what an incredible example of philanthropy and volunteerism we have seen tonight, right here at Government House. The Friends of Government House have developed and maintained an impressive volunteer program, aimed at serving the people of British Columbia and the Office of the Lieutenant Governor. 

On behalf of all Canadians, I congratulate and commend you for how you, alongside your fellow British Columbians, are working to make our country’s future brighter. For pursuing your dreams for what our country can become, and the legacies you desire to leave behind.

Once again, thank you for your warm welcome this evening. Sharon and I look forward to getting to know many of you better.