‘Highlighting the strength of Canadians and the values we represent to the world’
26 JUNE 2026 (TORONTO, ON) – Canadian singer/songwriter and local resident Loreena McKennitt has been appointed to Officer of the Order of Canada, announced today by the Right Honourable Louise Arbour, Canada’s new Governor General. McKennitt was appointed as a Member of the Order of Canada in 2004 and this new title represents a promotion.
A media release from Rideau Hall reads: “Loreena McKennitt has enriched and represented Canadian culture at home and abroad through her music. She has championed artists, supported military families as an honorary colonel, and fostered community through the Falstaff Family Centre and Wise Communities Stratford. Her leadership in public dialogue, reconciliation efforts and civic engagement have strengthened Canada.”
In all, 61 new appointments to the Order of Canada were announced today, five of which represent promotions.
“The Order of Canada recognizes those whose contributions help us see our country and our place in the world with greater clarity and purpose. These appointees, from diverse backgrounds and fields, reflect the talent and determination that shape Canada’s future,” said Governor General Arbour in the release. “At a time of profound global change, their achievements highlight the strength of Canadians and the values we represent to the world.”
“I am humbled by this honour,” says McKennitt. “Over the years, it has become unmistakably clear how much our communities and our nation rely on volunteerism, advocacy and service to others. We’ve all been the beneficiaries of the work done by those who have filled these roles before us and I’m grateful to be able to offer some small measure of that tradition of service in the work that I do.”
The Order of Canada is one of the country’s highest honours. It recognizes people across all sectors of society who have made extraordinary and sustained contributions to the nation. Anyone can nominate a person for the Order of Canada.
