Charlottetown, Tuesday, November 8, 2005

My husband and I are delighted to join you all today. This event is the culmination of many years of hard work on the part of so many people. I welcome this opportunity to celebrate an institution that is so important to our country.

In addition to the crucial role it plays at the heart of this community, the Confederation Centre of the Arts has tremendous symbolic meaning for all Canadians.

It is a powerful tribute to the Fathers of Confederation, whose work here in Charlottetown in 1864 is commemorated by this building. I am sure they would marvel at the fact that Canada has grown so much, and come so far, since they first gathered here for that fateful conference.

As well, there is symbolism in the type of memorial that was chosen. Instead of a commemorative statue, or a peaceful park, the people of Canada built a centre for the arts, a centre of learning, a centre of expression.

I can think of no greater homage to the visionaries who dared to dream of creating a new country. By showcasing artistic excellence, the Confederation Centre celebrates the best we have to offer.

Culture is the soul of a country. Our artists take on themselves our dreams, desires and fears and imbue them with a unique resonance that calls to us and gives us release.

I think it is significant that the Confederation Centre of the Arts is one of the first contemporary building to be designated as a national historic site.

That certainly makes sense, given the building’s architectural merit.

Its designers ensured that the Centre would be well integrated within the cityscape of Charlottetown, even though it would stand in contrast to many historic buildings.

They faced the Centre’s exterior with sandstone from Wallace, Nova Scotia, the same material that was used in the construction of its historic neighbour—Province House.

What they created is a modern, multi-purpose arts institute that represents the national pride Canadians from coast-to-coast felt so strongly in the 1960s, and continue to feel to this day.

It is an open and friendly place, welcoming numerous visitors from Canada and around the world, who come to enjoy the many performances and exhibitions, and the other resources this centre has to offer.

And so, on this special day, I say, congratulations! Long may this Centre continue to serve the people of Charlottetown, of Prince Edward Island, and of Canada.

Long live the Confederation Centre of the Arts!