Overview of the 2024 Order of Canada Announcements
The Governor General announced 80 new appointments to the Order of Canada, recognizing Canadians who have demonstrated outstanding excellence and service in various fields. Among the notable recipients are former Supreme Court of Canada justices Rosalie Abella and Michael Moldaver, who were named Companions, the order’s highest level. The group also includes Olympic sprinter Andre De Grasse and broadcaster Nardwuar, alongside educators, healthcare professionals, community organizers, and cultural contributors.
Why Abella and Moldaver Are Recognized as Companions
Rosalie Abella, who served as a justice on the Supreme Court of Canada from 1997 to 2017, is celebrated for her long-standing advocacy for equality and human rights. Her work has influenced Canadian constitutional interpretation and social policy, particularly in areas related to discrimination, women’s rights, and the rights of marginalized groups. Michael Moldaver, who served from 2011 to 2021, is recognized for his contributions to Canadian jurisprudence and his focused efforts to modernize courtroom procedures and enhance access to justice. Naming both as Companions highlights a shared commitment to fairness, rule of law, and public service that has shaped Canadian legal culture for decades.
Other Notable Recipients
Among the hundreds honored, the list includes cross-disciplinary contributors who have strengthened Canadian society in various ways. Olympic sprinter Andre De Grasse brings achievements in sport, leadership, and community involvement, embodying the values of perseverance and public service that the Order of Canada seeks to celebrate. Nardwuar, a well-known broadcaster and interviewer, is recognized for his decades of cultural documentation and support for Canadian music and arts communities. The broader cohort features educators who transformed classrooms, healthcare workers who went beyond duty during health crises, Indigenous leaders who advance reconciliation, and volunteers who dedicate time to vulnerable populations.
What It Means to Be Named to the Order of Canada
The Order of Canada honors a diverse spectrum of Canadians who have demonstrated a high level of merit and service. Appointees become visible role models whose work often extends beyond their primary profession, influencing policy, culture, and social cohesion. For recipients like Abella and Moldaver, the recognition also signals a celebration of a lifetime of jurisprudence and advocacy, reinforcing the idea that the rule of law and equal rights remain central to national life. For others, the honor may acknowledge groundbreaking research, community organizing, or international leadership that reflects Canadian values on a global stage.
Process and Eligibility
The Governor General, as the Queen’s representative, chairs the Advisory Council for the Order of Canada. Nominees are proposed by the public and vetted for a record of service that has enriched the nation. The final selection reflects a balance of regions, sectors, and stories—ensuring that the order mirrors Canada’s diverse contributions. The 2024 cohort continues this tradition by including a wide range of professionals, volunteers, and artists who have shaped communities from coast to coast.
Looking Ahead
As the newest companions, officers, and members prepare to participate in investiture ceremonies in the coming months, Canadian society has an opportunity to reflect on the values these honorees represent. The Order of Canada not only honors personal achievement but also serves as a platform to inspire others to give back, mentor younger generations, and contribute to national dialogue on justice, culture, and inclusive progress.
