Today marks the 60th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s accession to the throne as Queen of Canada.
“It is truly a privilege to mark the 60-year reign of a Sovereign who has dedicated her life to the service of others and who has demonstrated pride and affection for Canada,” said Honourable John C. Crosbie, Lieutenant Governor of Newfoundland and Labrador, in a press release this morning. “The Diamond Jubilee is an opportunity to highlight those in our community who, like Her Majesty, have dedicated themselves to service to family, community and country.”
While today is the actual 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s service to Canada and the Commonwealth, celebrations and commemorations will take place throughout the year across Newfoundland and Labrador and nationally.
“The Diamond Jubilee allows us the opportunity to celebrate our traditions and history,” Premier Kathy Dunderdale, in a press release. “It also offers the chance to increase our young people’s understanding of the role of the Crown in Canada and constitutional monarchy. I encourage everyone to celebrate this momentous occasion by participating in the many Diamond Jubilee events that will be taking place across the province during 2012.”
Diamond Jubilee medals will be presented to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians during ceremonies that will take place across the province this year. The Diamond Jubilee medal program is a legacy activity that honours Her Majesty and recognizes the service of Canadians who have made significant contributions to their communities.
At sunrise this morning, Her Majesty’s Personal Canadian Flag was raised in front of the House of Assembly in a ceremony attended by Paul Lane, MHA for Mount Pearl South, Commander Larry Trim, Commanding Officer of Canadian Forces Station St. John's, a flag party made up of Canadian Forces members representing the Army, Airforce and Navy, as well as the Royal Newfoundland Regiment Band. Members of the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police were also present. The flag will fly until sunset this evening.
The Provincial Government will also commemorate the Diamond Jubilee by launching the following message on all outgoing government mail: Newfoundland and Labrador celebrates 60 years of service by Queen Elizabeth II.
In addition, Their Honours are hosting a reception for invited guests at Government House this afternoon. The event will feature the unveiling of an exhibit of memorabilia and photographs related to Her Majesty’s previous visits to Newfoundland and Labrador, a congratulatory message book will be launched and Government House will be lit with gold and purple lighting.
Details on these and other activities celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee can be found on the newly designed Government House website, which was also launched today, www.govhouse.nl.ca
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