Rideau Hall, Wednesday, October 9, 2013

What a historic moment. I do not believe that we have ever had a fashion show at Rideau Hall.  First, let me thank you once again for being here this evening for this unique and important event.

Mental illness is among the most complex and pressing health issues of our time, and Sharon and I are pleased to lend our support to this worthy cause.

Sharon and I have had the opportunity over the past three years to travel across Canada and meet with Canadians who are working to improve mental health and to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.

There are many innovative and encouraging initiatives underway. We have heard about many of them this evening.

Let me briefly share with you another example of creative change: the Canadian Armed Forces’ new mental health strategy.

This new strategy outlines a comprehensive approach to meeting the mental health needs of military personnel in the coming years. As commander-in-chief of Canada, I am proud of the initiative the Canadian Armed Forces is showing in relation to mental health.

Again, let me say how proud Sharon and I are to be your hosts this evening.

I often like to say that Rideau Hall is the home of the people of Canada, and we consider this a milestone of sorts in the effort to raise awareness of the importance of mental health, and its relationship to creativity in particular.

On that note, we would like to encourage each of you to explore the residence and to view the numerous William Kurelek paintings on display.

We are pleased to share them with you.  They are fascinating, insightful works of art.

In conclusion, let me also say a brief word about the role you each can play in transforming how we view mental illness in Canada.

Here at Rideau Hall, we often meet with ambassadors and diplomats from around the world, and each of you can act in a similar manner in the sphere of mental health.

Each of you has the power to become an ambassador for this issue, and to bring about positive change.

Together, we can create a smarter, more caring and compassionate society.

Thank you once again for being here.