June 25, 2026

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We have come together on the traditional, unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg Nation. We thank that great nation for caring for these lands for generations.

It is a privilege for me to present these Canadian honours for the first time as governor general.

Canadians are often too modest in celebrating their own excellence, which makes a day like today all the more significant.

It is a good thing that we do not mistake humility for weakness—for our expertise places us among global leaders in a remarkable range of fields.

Canada is renowned around the world for the creativity of its artists, the excellence of its research, the ingenuity of its innovators and its commitment to advocating for social justice and the fundamental rights protected by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

I am very proud of the breadth of our talents and our collective expertise.

To each of you: thank you. And let’s remember that your contributions are not merely individual.

Through your work in the arts and media, as well as in academic research and civic engagement, you give a voice to minority cultures and languages. You bring attention to marginalized communities and open our minds to new perspectives. 

By promoting Indigenous knowledge and revitalizing Indigenous languages, you help guide us along the path toward reconciliation.

You deepen our understanding of the Arctic.

You advance equity in access to education and health care.

Through your work in physical and mental health, you push the boundaries of our knowledge and deepen our understanding of the human experience.

And by supporting those in need—from newcomers to Canada to people living with disabilities, to poor and marginalized people—you remind us of the power of generosity, compassion and selflessness, with some of you even risking your own safety to save lives.

I think that today, we can set aside our Canadian modesty for a moment.

Your contributions are not just individual efforts. Together, they bring about positive change in our country and strengthen its standing in the world.

Thank you for helping to build an inclusive, engaged, highly skilled and inspiring country—one that strives to do better, to learn as much from its shortcomings as from its successes, ready to embrace the future with ambition and confidence.

Congratulations!