February 13, 2025

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We are gathered on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabeg Nation, which has taken care of this land for thousands of years.

Welcome to Rideau Hall for the presentation of the 2024 Governor General’s Medals in Architecture and Landscape Architecture.

An architectural project accomplishes far more than just creating a harmonious structure.

It creates a family home. It brings a crowd together for a concert or sports match. It offers a soothing learning environment to children. It complements our natural landscapes for all to admire.

Architecture also reminds us of our history. It is a statement about who we are to the rest of the world.

Canadian architecture is admired internationally for its innovation, and because it tells the story of who we are.

We are a nation that proudly celebrates diversity, inclusion, equality and respect among cultures, including Indigenous cultures.

Indigenous traditions, knowledge, design and techniques are featured in many of Canada’s architectural gems.

We are also a nation that cherishes our vast, beautiful and distinct environment. Our architecture illustrates this, too.

Through the use of sustainable practices and thoughtful integration into natural landscapes, our architecture showcases a built environment that fosters a greener future for generations to come.

You have all excelled in upholding these Canadian ideals, from Chicoutimi, Quebec, to Toronto, Ontario, and to Burnaby, British Colombia.

Congratulations to all of you on earning this well-deserved honour, and thank you for enriching our built landscape with your contributions!

Thank you. Merci. Nakurmiik.