My colleague, Mauril Bélanger. Member of Parliament for Ottawa-Vanier, has decided to launch 'Celebrate 150' to gather ideas from Canadians on how best to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017. This anniversary will be another defining moment in our collective history, a cause for great celebration from coast to coast to coast.

With only 10 years to go, it is important to put out the call to all Canadians for ideas on how to mark this milestone. In the spirit of this initiative, Mauril has been travelling across Canada to obtain ideas from youth and seniors. His tour brought him last month in Westmount-Ville-Marie where he met with students of Villa Sainte-Marcelline and seniors from Manor Westmount. He certainly has gathered great ideas, as diversified as they are originals.

Let’s recall a few historical notes. On June 20, 1868, a proclamation signed by the Governor General, Lord Monck, called upon all Her Majesty's loving subjects throughout Canada to join in the celebration of the anniversary of the formation of the union of the British North America provinces in a federation under the name of Canada on July 1st.

The July 1 holiday was established by statute in 1879, under the name Dominion Day. There is no record of organized ceremonies after this first anniversary, except for the 50th anniversary of Confederation in 1917, at which time the new Centre Block of the Parliament Buildings, under construction, was dedicated as a memorial to the Fathers of Confederation and to the valour of Canadians fighting in World War I in Europe.

The next celebration was held in 1927 to mark the Diamond Jubilee of Confederation. It was highlighted by the laying of the cornerstone by the Governor General of the Confederation Building on Wellington Street and the inauguration of the Carillon in the Peace Tower.

A number of events were held in 1967 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Confederation, including Expo 67 in Montreal.

On October 27, 1982, July 1, which was known as Dominion Day, became Canada Day. In 1992, when we celebrated the 125th anniversary, a series of events were held in the capital and across Canada.

Celebrate 150 encourages Canadians to share their ideas on celebrating Canada’s rich diversity. This project aims to stimulate dialogue, reflection and creativity. What should we accomplish over the next 10 years? What does our future hold for us? What celebrations would fit this occasion? All of this merits some thought.

All good ideas are welcome! Have your say!

On this note, I would like to wish you a happy St. Jean Baptiste and Canada Day. And I hope that you all have a wonderful summer.



• The Honourable Lucienne Robillard is the Liberal Member of Parliament for Westmount-Ville-Marie and the Deputy House Leader.