December 11, 2025

Check against delivery

Welcome to Rideau Hall, which sits on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg Nation.

It is truly heartwarming to present these honorary distinctions to you today.

We are closing a year that has tested families and communities here in Canada and around the world.

But what we must remember most from this year are our acts of solidarity.

I witnessed countless moments of solidarity, generosity and reconciliation across the country.

And at key moments, I felt a renewed sense of national pride—like when Canadians everywhere rallied behind our Toronto Blue Jays. Right?

Each of you contributes to fostering a feeling of pride and cohesion in our society.

Today, we celebrate not only your talent, expertise and the years of dedication you’ve invested in building your careers.

We also honour all the lives you’ve touched through your work.

This year, we lost remarkable members of the Order of Canada.

Among them was Colleen Jones, a legend in Canada’s curling community, who touched thousands of lives by elevating the profile of women in sports.

You, too, have touched lives.

By giving thousands hope for better health.

By defending the rights and inclusion of marginalized people.

By strengthening justice and security.

Through innovation and community-building.

By sharing knowledge through education, journalism and historical research.

By creating works of art that move us, unite us, mobilize us.

By creating spaces for dialogue and celebrating our extraordinary cultural diversity.

You have elevated others.

Defended others. Opened doors for others. Inspired others.

Keep striving for excellence.

The Order of Canada and these Meritorious Service Decorations are an invitation to continue strengthening pride and solidarity across our nation.

On behalf of all those whose lives you have touched, I offer my deepest gratitude and heartfelt congratulations.