Order of Canada goes to advocates, athletes, scientists and Deadpool

Diane Pitre, an advocate for 2SLGBTQ+ members of the Canadian Armed Forces, has been appointed to the Order of Canada more than 40 years after being told she was a threat to Canada because of her sexuality. Pitre, who was expelled from the military in 1980 during The Purge, is among the 88 new appointees to the prestigious honor.

The list of new appointees also includes well-known figures such as actor Ryan Reynolds, Holocaust survivor Mariette Doduck, geneticist David Chitayat, curler Kevin Martin, and musician Heather Rankin. Pitre expressed her shock and gratitude at being recognized with such a high honor, stating that she never expected it.

After being discharged from the military, Pitre dedicated her life to lobbying for an apology from the government, which finally came in 2017 when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly acknowledged and apologized for the discrimination faced by the 2SLGBTQ+ community in Canada. Douglas Elliott, lead counsel in a class-action lawsuit related to The Purge, was also appointed to the Order of Canada this year.

The list of new appointees features a diverse range of individuals who have made significant contributions to Canada, including scientists like E. coli expert Carlton Gyles, pediatric neuro-oncology researcher Nada Jabado, and speech-language pathologist Aura Kagan. Musicians and artists such as guitarist Don Alder, sculptor Ruth Abernethy, and multimedia artist Stan Douglas were also recognized for their achievements.

Governor General Mary Simon commended the appointees for their perseverance, fearless leadership, and visionary spirit, stating that they are builders of hope for a better future. Disability rights expert Michael Prince, who was also appointed to the Order of Canada, expressed the profound significance of the honor and the emotional impact it had on him.

Canadian curling star Kevin Martin, who holds multiple world championship titles and Olympic medals, was surprised and honored to receive the appointment. Martin, known for his contributions to the sport both on and off the ice, credited his success to his dedication to growing and improving the sport.

Pitre, who founded Rainbow Veterans of Canada, remains committed to her advocacy work despite the progress that has been made. She emphasized the importance of continuing to fight for equality and inclusion to prevent a regression in rights. New members of the Order of Canada will be invited to a ceremony to receive their insignia, with details to be announced in the future.