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January 31, 2009 OTTAWA— My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I were overwhelmed when we heard that another Canadian Forces soldier, Sapper Sean Greenfield from 2 Combat Engineer Regiment based at CFB Petawawa, was fatally wounded by an improvised explosive device while conducting a security patrol, ...

February 4, 2009 We celebrate Black History Month to remember and make people aware of the long march made by women and men—some famous, but most unknown—striving for the same ideal, pursuing a single goal: inclusion, that legitimacy that gives every woman, man and child the opportunity to distingui...

March 4, 2009 Jean-Daniel Lafond and I were deeply saddened to learn that the explosion of an improvised explosive device, 10 km away from Kandahar, took the lives of three Canadian soldiers and seriously injured two of their comrades during their mission in Afghanistan. Despite great personal risk,...

March 5, 2009 OTTAWA— In Canada, we pride ourselves on believing in gender equality. On believing that women and men should share responsibilities and obligations. On believing in the full emancipation of women and girls, so that they are able to work and give the best of themselves, in every sphere...

March 8, 2009 OTTAWA—My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I were deeply saddened to receive word of the death of Trooper Marc Diab with The Royal Canadian Dragoons, based in Petawawa, and of the injuries sustained by four soldiers from a roadside blast during their patrol in the Sha Wali Kot District...

March 9, 2009 Commonwealth Day serves as a reminder not only of our past, but also of our growth as a nation. Today is a day to celebrate the unique ties that we share with countries around the word and the history that binds us. Throughout our history in the Commonwealth, Canadians have remained pr...

March 13, 2009 It was with great sadness that my husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I learned of the terrible helicopter accident that occurred yesterday east of St. John’s, Newfoundland. The 18 people on board, including two members of the Cougar Helicopters flight crew, 14 workers from the Sea Rose ...

March 20, 2009 An important part of my responsibilities as governor general is to travel on official, State and working visits abroad. This sustained exercise in diplomacy on the world stage gives me the opportunity to see the degree to which Canada is renowned worldwide as a model of social cohesio...

March 19, 2009 OTTAWA— An expression of diversity and dialogue, of co-operation and understanding, Journée internationale de la Francophonie reminds us that around the world, in a language at once colourful and precise, poetic and learned, strong bonds of friendship and solidarity are being forged t...

March 20, 2009 OTTAWA—My husband Jean-Daniel Lafond and I are sorry and deeply saddened to learn that four members of the Canadian Forces and the Afghan interpreter accompanying them were killed, and eight of their comrades in arms wounded under tragic circumstances in Afghanistan. Master Corporal S...

April 3, 2009 The territory of Nunavut is celebrating its 10th anniversary this week, and I would add, this year, 2009. This historic event in our country marks an important step in this ongoing adventure that is so full of promise. I have vivid memories of the Nunavut’s creation in the spring of 19...

April 14, 2009 OTTAWA— My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I were deeply saddened to hear of the death of Trooper Karine Blais from the 2nd Battalion, Royal 22e Régiment Battle Group, based in Valcartier, Quebec. The vehicle she was in exploded upon striking an improvised explosive device in the Sha...

April 17, 2009 In the midst of the current economic turmoil, or even when life just gets you down, the work, support or simple smile of a volunteer can bring a ray of sunshine to warm the heart and rekindle hope. That is why I am so pleased to celebrate National Volunteer Week and particularly to pa...

April 20, 2009 History teaches us that inhumanity and intolerance thrive in silence. Today, on Holocaust Memorial Day, we remember those who were lost to us, and recall a dark time that changed the world as we knew it. Every year, people gather together, in Canada, in Europe, in Israel, and around t...

April 24, 2009 OTTAWA— While in Ukraine on a State Visit, my husband Jean-Daniel Lafond and I learned of the tragic death of Major Michelle Mendes, based in Ottawa, Ontario, yesterday in Afghanistan. Every day, our soldiers serving there are put to the test, both physically and psychologically. The ...

May 14, 2009 Fifteen years ago, the United Nations declared May 15 International Day of Families. Let us make this day an opportunity to reflect on family values in our lives and in our society. The family has evolved considerably, the definition has changed and has sometimes been extended. But one ...

May 15, 2009 Victoria Day provides Canadians with an opportunity to rejoice in our heritage and to pay homage to Her Majesty The Queen. It is also a day to remember past kings and queens who were instrumental in building this country. The Crown in Canada is a vital part of our national identity, and...

June 4, 2009 OTTAWA–During my visits across Canada and around the world, I have had the opportunity to speak to members of the Canadian Forces and their families. Listening to them talk about their lives, catching snatches of conversation here and here, and reading mission reports has helped me to f...

June 8, 2009 OTTAWA—My husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, and I have just learned the sad news of the death of Private Alexandre Péloquin, a member of the 2e Bataillon, Royal 22e Régiment. He was on patrol in an area southwest of Kandahar, Afghanistan, when he was killed by an explosive device. The increa...

June 12, 2009OTTAWA–We are very fortunate in Canada to have such a remarkable public service that is dedicated to excellence, both in terms of the quality of its employees and the work they accomplish with heart and integrity. Every day, these women and men use their knowledge, passion and creativit...