June 8, 2026
At a wonderful ceremony in the Senate chamber, Canada’s new Governor General, Her Excellency the Rt. Hon. Louise Arbour, was sworn in today.
The ceremony featured a gracious message of welcome from Indigenous hosts of the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, members of the Algonquin First Nation, represented by Verna McGregor. Ceremonial drummers, traditionally present at viceregal installations, accompanied the events.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, in his own remarks, recognized the enduring importance of the Crown as a guardian of Canada’s constitutional order.
Madame Arbour, with a grace and dignity befitting the high office she has taken on as the King’s representative in Canada, spoke about the value of continuity in Canada’s institutions, institutions that have made Canada respected around the world. While inevitably imperfect, our system of government has long endured and can withstand our inevitable differences. As Canadians we work together, Madame Arbour reminded us, but do not attempt to enforce a uniformity of views. Being open to the perspectives of others is essential. The rule of law, she observed, is not intended primarily to restrain, but rather to protect freedoms. As commander-in-chief, Madame Arbour recognized the important service of Canada’s armed forces in upholding our freedoms. After the swearing-in, the new Governor General inspected the troops and laid flowers on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. In her speech, Madame Arbour emphasized the traditional role of the Crown’s representative in maintaining good relations with Indigenous nations and her commitment to continue the work of reconciliation.
To sustained applause, Madame Arbour recognized the deeply meaningful service to Canada of her predecessor in office, the Rt. Hon. Mary Simon, and Simon’s spouse, Whit Fraser.
We at the Institute for the Study of the Crown in Canada join Her Excellency in extending our appreciation of their valuable work. The qulliq, an Inuit oil lamp, a new viceregal tradition introduced by Mrs. Simon upon her own installation, burned throughout the ceremony.
Barbara J. Messamore
President, Institute for the Study of the Crown in Canada