March 19, 2026

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Hello and welcome to Rideau Hall.

Here, we are gathered on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg Nation.

It is an honour to present to you the insignia of the Order of Canada, the Meritorious Service Decorations, and the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers.

Today, your names will be added to a long list of remarkable people who have helped shape our society.

Excellence does not arise from a single path or profession. It rises from every corner of our country.

It is found in classrooms and laboratories; in community centres, boardrooms and courtrooms; on stages and in neighbourhoods.

It is carried by people of every age, background and culture, and from every region. Each person offers their talents, creativity and dedication to lift others up.

Each contribution is important.

We are all interconnected.

That truth is beautifully reflected in the magnificent work of art before you.

This painting is Honouring My Spirit Helpers, by Christi Belcourt—a Métis visual artist, environmentalist and activist whom I am proud to invest as a Member of the Order of Canada today.

It is a celebration of life, creation and birth inspired by Métis beadwork.

To me, it has always felt like an invitation to look more closely—beyond the surface—to the delicate networks that sustain life and to the relationships that bind us.

Every detail reminds us of a larger truth: that diversity—of cultures, experiences and knowledge systems—deeply enriches us all.

Today, looking at everyone in this room, I want to highlight how your achievements reflect that same spirit.

Together, they form a vibrant mosaic—much like the interconnected elements in Ms. Belcourt’s work.

Your contributions are not only individual ones. Woven together, they create collective strength.

Through journalism, history, the arts and culture, you open our eyes to the world.

You help us move together toward reconciliation, truth and inclusion.

You help advance our core public systems—from justice to education and health.

Through scientific research in health and psychology, you broaden our understanding of the human experience.

Through athletic excellence and bold innovation across industries and in the digital world, you push boundaries and inspire us to reach higher.

And through acts of generosity that support people in need, you remind us of the power of compassion.

To each and every one of you: thank you for this remarkable tapestry of contributions.

Congratulations!