Recorded at Rideau Hall, Friday, December 7, 2007

The French language and culture first set down roots in this land—and in the hearts of those living here—four hundred years ago.

Today, these roots cover an entire continent.

The French language and culture blossomed and flourished here in the Americas and they became a means of expressing a myriad of points of view.

They drew their remarkable strength from the people’s determination, nay, stubbornness to defend, develop, and enrich them through their unique contribution.

Four hundred years later, this strong French presence is an incredible resource that we should all treasure and celebrate.

My Haitian origins, my deep roots in Quebec, my sense of belonging to the whole of Canada: these are just a few of the reasons why I am so proud of this heritage we all share.

The Citadelle—which includes the governor general’s official residence in Quebec and is where significant pages of our collective history have been written—will be central in the celebrations.

I hope Canadians from all across the country will join us in celebrating a city, a history, a language and a culture that are a major part of our heritage and our identity.

May this year of celebration be one in which cultures and civilizations come together, one in which we all show our solidarity.