As part of Canada Day celebrations, Governor General Mary Simon announced the appointment of 83 individuals to the Order of Canada, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the nation.The appointees included two Companions, 19 Officers, and 62 Members, reflecting a diverse group of Canadians who have made significant impacts across various fields.This year’s list features prominent names such as former world champion mixed martial artist Georges St-Pierre and acclaimed writer Miriam Toews.Among the appointees, Marc-André Blanchard— former Canadian ambassador to the United Nations and current chief of staff to Prime Minister Mark Carney—drew attention..Blanchard, who also formerly served as executive vice-president of the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ), managing public pension plans and insurance programs, was named a Member of the Order.His past roles, including serving on Justin Trudeau’s transition team following the 2015 election and as president of the Quebec Liberal Party (2000–2008), could fuel perceptions of favouritism at a time of political unrest.Blanchard caused controversy in an April 2024 interview with Net Zero Investor, when he made a case for CDPQ’s strategic shift toward clean energy investment, stating, “CDPQ’s conviction is: It is essential not to contribute to increased oil and coal production and to focus on renewable and transition energies.”He added that the pension fund has “scaled back the presence of large emitters” in its portfolio and is investing directly in the decarbonization of the real economy..Another Liberal cabinet minister contradicts Carney on pipelines as Western alienation mounts.Blanchard was also vocal in supporting progressive global policies during his time as UN ambassador, including LGBTQ+ rights.Speaking to the UN Free & Equal campaign in 2019, Blanchard emphasized that "human rights are non-negotiable" and affirmed Canada’s commitment to defending LGBTQ+ individuals globally.Simon praised the appointees, stating, “We proudly recognize each of these individuals whose dedication and passion for service not only enrich our communities but also help shape the fabric of our nation.”.Ontario Liberals pledge to enact pro-LGBT measures.The Order of Canada, established in 1967, is one of the country’s highest civilian honours, celebrating individuals whose dedication and service have enriched Canadian society.Since its inception, over 8,200 people have been recognized, including iconic figures such as Terry Fox, Wayne Gretzky, and Anne Murray, to name a few.The appointments, made on April 17, 2025, were recommended by the Advisory Council for the Order of Canada.
