On November 27, Governor General Julie Payette announced the 114 new appointments to the Order of Canada.

There were three new Indigenous members of the Order of Canada announced by, and two promotions of Indigenous members.

Actor and singer Tom Jackson and author Thomas King were promoted to the companion tier, the highest rank of the Order of Canada.

Who are they?

Elder Doreen Spence of Calgary, Alberta was appointed as a member of the Order of Canada for her efforts advocating for peace and Indigenous peoples’ human rights.

Elder Doreen Spence O.C., has been appointed to receive the Order of Canada, one of our country's highest civilian honours. Her appointment is in recognition of "her efforts as an internationally respected Cree Elder advocating for peace and Indigenous peoples' human rights." pic.twitter.com/agoMVLUbjf

— Bernadette Iahtail (@IahtailbIahtail) November 28, 2020

‘It means so much because at 83, I’m still very much engaged in the community,’ says Doreen Spence to CBC. 

Chief Darcy Bear, a Whitecap Dakota First Nation, Saskatchewan was appointed as a member for his visionary leadership of the Whitecap Dakota First Nation, and for creating economic and social development opportunities for his community.

Harvey Andrew McCue (Waubageshig), of Ottawa, Ontario was appointed for his contributions to the health and well-being of Indigenous youth in Canada and for his influential leadership in education.

About the Order of Canada

Since it was created in 1967, more than 7,000 people have been appointed to the Order, which recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to Canada.

Their contributions are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and have taken to heart the motto of the Order: DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM (“They desire a better country”).