June 24, 2012

Message from His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, on the Occasion of Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day

OTTAWA— On this June 24, my wife, Sharon, and I are delighted to extend greetings to Quebeckers and to Francophones across the country taking part in festivities celebrating Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day.

Since the beginning of my mandate as governor general, I have had the tremendous privilege of visiting Canada from coast to coast to coast. I have seen first-hand the incredible vitality within our French-speaking communities and I know the extent to which they represent one of our greatest strengths.

Whatever our origins, each of us can take the opportunity offered by this day to learn more about the cultural wealth of all those who have French in common, as well as their contributions to our collective heritage. But Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day is above all a wonderful occasion to come together and enjoy what are traditionally very colourful celebrations.

As the glow of a thousand bonfires lights up the sky above Quebec and Francophone communities across Canada, Sharon and I wish you all a most enjoyable Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day.

David Johnston

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Media information:

Marie-Pierre Bélanger
Rideau Hall Press Office
613-998-9166
marie-pierre.belanger@gg.ca

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