Celebrating the Queen of Canada’s Diamond Jubilee
Celebrating the Queen of Canada’s Diamond Jubilee
Throughout Canada’s history, the monarchy has been a symbol of strength and continuity. As Canada’s Head of State, Her Majesty the Queen of Canada embodies an enduring institution that serves to safeguard Canadians’ rights and freedoms.
For the past six decades, the Queen has served the Crown and Canada with steadfast devotion. To date, she has paid 22 visits to our great country, travelling through communities large and small, engaging with Canadians from coast to coast to coast. During her last tour of Canada, she expressed the sentiment that she was “home,” a perspective shared by so many Canadians who welcomed her with warmth.
This year marks a tremendous occasion for the Queen. In 2012, we celebrate the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty’s accession to the throne as the Queen of Canada, which is only the second time such a milestone has been achieved in the history of the monarchy. To recognize this remarkable event, the federal government has begun several special initiatives to honour the Queen’s reign, service and dedication to our country, as well as to celebrate Canadian achievements over the past 60 years.
To launch the celebrations, Canada Post issued collectable stamp keepsake folders at the beginning of the year. Then in February, Canada’s Diamond Jubilee Flag and the Queen’s personal Canadian Flag were raised on Parliament Hill for the day on February 6. Our Conservative Government was subsequently pleased when Their Royal Highnesses, The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall, accepted our invitation to visit Canada in May 2012. Following the success of last year’s visit by The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, this Royal Tour will serve as a dynamic addition to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations.
In addition, administered by the office of the Governor General of Canada, our Government announced the year-long awarding of the Diamond Jubilee Medal. This commemorative medal is a way for Canadians to honour Her Majesty for her service to our country. At the same time, it serves as recognition for those hard-working Canadians who make significant contributions to our communities. During this year of celebration, 60,000 medals will be awarded to deserving Canadians. The first 60 recipients received their awards at Rideau Hall in February.
As Her Majesty has consistently earned the admiration of all for her deep commitment to public service, the Harper Government is proud to recognize her historic and significant anniversary. In doing so, we’re delivering on our commitment to reinforce our heritage through the celebration of our institutions that define who we are as Canadians.