Hamilton’s Lawrence Hill welcomed into Order of Canada
Canada’s Governor General David Johnston welcomed 36 new Members, nine new Officers and one Companion into the Order of Canada at a ceremony in Ottawa on Friday.
The Order exists to recognize Canadians for their achievements and service to the country across a range of fields. Non-Canadians can be appointed on an honorary basis.
Hamilton author Lawrence Hill was recognized for his advocacy for free expression and for opening up discussions about race in Canada. He joined the order as a Member.
Hill is the author of 10 books and the winner of several writing awards.
Among the new recipients are 11 people from Toronto, and one each from Scarborough, Hamilton, Etobicoke, and Oakville.
The only person to join the order at the Companion level on Friday was the University of Toronto’s Brenda Andrews — called on for her work in genetic studies. Her research is used around the globe to help inform the response to hereditary diseases.
Oakville’s Christine Magee, cofounder of Sleep Country Canada, joined as a member of the Order for being a “model of corporate citizenship.” She was recognized for her role as a mentor and for donating beds to people in need.
The 46 people invested on Friday join more than 6,000 members who have joined the Order since it was established by 1967.
The Order has different levels — Companions, Officers and Members — that distinguish between international, national and local service to the public.