Rideau Hall, Friday, November 22, 2013

Welcome to Rideau Hall, the home of the people of Canada.

The Order in which you are about to be invested or promoted was created in 1967, which was, of course, the 100th anniversary of Confederation.

The timing was no accident. The Order of Canada was established as a tribute to our country, to the talents of Canadians and to our wonderful diversity.

Indeed, diversity is a defining characteristic of this country and of the Order of Canada.

Your presence here today is proof of that.

You come from throughout Canada and you work and contribute in a wide variety of fields.

You are artists and educators, researchers, broadcasters, volunteers, advocates, public servants, and athletes.

You are leaders and activists, entrepreneurs and businesspeople.

You are philanthropists and innovators, poets and geographers, bankers and journalists.

Did I miss anyone?!

My point is that, together, you are emblematic of the breadth and depth of talent and dedication that exist in this country.

Now you are brought closer together, not just as Canadians, but as members, officers and companions of the Order of Canada.

In this way, the Order is a microcosm of Canada.

It echoes not just Confederation, but even deeper themes and currents that run through the history of this land.

Last month, I had the pleasure of taking part in a commemorative event marking the 250th anniversary of the Royal Proclamation, a document that showed the way forward for the country that would become Canada.

Its guiding principles established the tradition of treaty-making, laid the basis for the recognition of First Nations rights, and defined the relationship between First Nations peoples and the Crown.

That formative period in our history saw several fundamental truths begin to be enshrined in law: we are all here to stay, and we are better off as partners.

Today we know: we are not diminished by our differences, but enriched by them.

Diversity is a great strength of this country, and it is also what makes the Order of Canada a unique and most worthy institution.

Gathered together today, here at Rideau Hall, I hope that you will learn from one another’s diverse talents and experiences. Consider how you might work together and exchange ideas to further strengthen Canada.

And please remember the Order’s motto: ‘They desire a better country.’ I salute each of you for what you have done in your unique way to make Canada a better place.

Please continue your remarkable journey of service—service which is love made real. You set the standard for all Canadians.

Thank you.