June 23, 2010

Message from Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, on the occasion of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day

OTTAWA— The melding of summer solstice traditions with the holiday held in honour of the patron saint of French-Canadians, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, a day born of a desire to unify  Canadians, will be celebrated in grand style this June 24.

It is my hope that these celebrations will be an opportunity for us all to appreciate the incomparable wealth of our common heritage, enriched over the centuries by French-speaking newcomers who settled in communities across this land. I also hope that these celebrations will help enhance our appreciation of our history, and bring out our closeness to these communities, which are a testimony to what we have achieved and the embodiment of our dreams for the future.

Let us use this occasion to build bridges and bring people together. I wish you all a very enjoyable Saint-Jean Baptiste Day!

Michaëlle Jean

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 Media information:

Julie Rocheleau
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-7280
jrocheleau@gg.ca
www.gg.ca