Lieutenant Governor of Ontario to Host Literary Event in Honour of Francophonie Month
Toronto, Ontario, March 24, 2026 — The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, will host a literary event in her Suite at Queen’s Park on Thursday, March 26, 2026. Presented in partnership with the Salon du livre and the Institut français du Canada, the event will run from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. as part of Francophonie Month celebrations.
Media representatives wishing to attend are asked to confirm their participation no later than 10:00 a.m. on March 26, 2026, by contacting Laetitia Walbert at laetitia.walbert@ontario.ca.
About the discussion
For the second consecutive year, the event offers a unique forum for meaningful encounters, thoughtful reflection, and rich exchanges on French‑language literature.
The first discussion will focus on Kolkhose by Emmanuel Carrère, the acclaimed French author, screenwriter, and filmmaker and recipient of the 2025 Prix Médicis.
The second discussion will explore Un livre, une communauté. Récit collectif des aînés et aînées francophones du Grand Toronto (A Book, a Community. A Collective Account by Francophone Seniors of Greater Toronto), and will feature a panel of contributors to the publication:
- Hélène Boudreau, Franco-Ontarian Community Leader
- Gilles Marchildon, Franco-Ontarian Community Leader
- Sigrid Pous, Member of Toronto’s Francophone Community
- Rolande Smith, President of the Toronto Historical Society
To learn more about the Lieutenant Governor’s initiatives, events and priorities, please visit our website: www.lgontario.ca.
Media Contact
Pascale Guillotte
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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Lieutenant Governor to Visit the Municipality of West Nipissing to Celebrate Francophonie Month and Engage with Northern Ontario Communities
March 23–24, 2026 — The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, will make an Official Visit to the Town of Sturgeon Falls, in the Municipality of West Nipissing, on Monday, March 23 and Tuesday, March 24, 2026.
The visit is being held during the Francophonie Month and is an opportunity to recognize the vibrant Francophone community in the West Nipissing area. The visit aims to deepen ties with communities in Northern Ontario and celebrate the region’s rich francophone heritage and culture.
Over two days, Her Honour will visit several key locations throughout the Town of Sturgeon Falls, including City Hall, the West Nipissing Community Health Centre, multiple local schools, and the Club Richelieu for the Souper de la Francophonie.
Itinerary
Monday, March 23, 2026
1:00 p.m. — Official Visit to West Nipissing City Hall
Her Honour will meet with the Mayor of West Nipissing and a local Indigenous Chief, followed by a tour of West Nipissing City Hall.
Media welcomed. Photos available upon request
2:15 p.m. — Visit to West Nipissing Community Health Centre and Women in Leadership Afternoon Tea
Her Honour will tour the West Nipissing Community Health Centre and participate in a private Women in Leadership discussion with the Mayor and local women leaders from the West Nipissing area.
Media welcomed. Photos available upon request
Tuesday, March 24, 2026
9:00 a.m. — Visit to École Franco-Cité
Her Honour will tour the French Catholic school Franco-Cité for a meeting with students and staff as well as representatives from Collège Boréal
Photos available upon request
10:30 a.m. — Visit to Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Elementary School
Her Honour will tour the school and meet with students, school board officials, and the principal.
Photos available upon request
1:00 p.m. — Joint Visit to Nipissing Ouest and Northern Secondary School
Her Honour will tour the school and meet with students, school board officials, and the principal.
Photos available upon request
5:00 p.m. — Souper de la Francophonie
Her Honour will participate in a community dinner hosted by a local Francophone community organization in Sturgeon Falls.
Media welcomed. Photos available upon request
To learn more about the initiatives, events, and priorities of the Lieutenant Governor, we invite you to visit our website: www.lgontario.ca
Media Contact:
Laetitia Walbert
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
Kimberly Marcoux
Communications and Corporate Services Officer
Municipality of West Nipissing
705-491-6419
communications@westnipissing.ca
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How the Francophonie Brings Us Together: A Dialogue on Cultural Diplomacy
Toronto, Ontario, March 20, 2026 — On this International Day of La Francophonie, celebrated worldwide under the theme “Peace Generation,” the Honourable Edith Dumont underscores the relevance and momentum sparked by the roundtable “Bridges Across the Francophonie,” held on March 17 in her Suite at Queen’s Park.
Moderated by journalist Heather Hiscox, the event convened leaders from diplomatic, media, cultural, and academic circles to reflect on how the French language fosters dialogue, builds bridges, and strengthens cultural diplomacy.
Throughout the discussions, a powerful message emerged: young people must be given genuine opportunities to meet, exchange ideas, and create together. Supporting Francophone and Francophile youth, in all their diversity, is an investment in a generation committed to the future, to solidarity, and to living together in harmony. It is also a way of bringing cultural diplomacy to life by fostering openness to others and cultivating lasting bonds.
In this context, the conversation also highlighted Africa’s significant demographic role within the global Francophonie, and that cultural diplomacy, carried forward through artistic, sporting, and institutional exchanges, fosters mutual appreciation, a deep sense of belonging, and international cooperation.
“What I felt at the end of those two hours was joy, the joy of being together and speaking about a Francophonie that is clearly very much alive,” said the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. “Being together in Toronto, an extraordinarily diverse city, reminds us that we are, in fact, connected to the entire world. I am Francophone in Ontario. I am Franco-Canadian. And I am also a Francophone of the world.”
The roundtable brought together His Excellency Appolinaire Aya, Ambassador of the Republic of the Congo to Canada; Xavier Brassard Bédard, President and Chief Executive Officer of TFO; Marie Christine Morin, Executive Director of the Fédération culturelle canadienne-française; and Dr. Jonathan Paquette, International Francophonie Research Chair on Cultural Heritage Policies chairholder at the University of Ottawa.
The full recording of the conversation is now available for those who wish to continue the reflection sparked by this event: audio recording (available in French only).
Photos from the event are also available for publication.
To learn more about the Lieutenant Governor’s initiatives, events, and priorities, please visit our website: www.lgontario.ca
Media Contact
Laetitia Walbert
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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Building Bridges Across the Francophonie: A Roundtable on Cultural Diplomacy at the Lieutenant Governor’s Suite
Toronto (Ontario), March 16, 2026 — The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, will host a roundtable discussion on March 17, 2026, as part of Francophonie Month, entitled “Bridges Across the Francophonie,” focusing on the central role of the French language in contemporary cultural diplomacy.
The event will take place in the Lieutenant Governor’s Suite at Queen’s Park from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Media representatives wishing to attend are asked to confirm their participation by 5:00 p.m. on March 16, 2026, by contacting Laetitia Walbert at laetitia.walbert@ontario.ca.
About the discussion
Hosted by renowned journalist and former CBC Morning Live presenter Heather Hiscox, this discussion will bring together leading Francophone figures from the diplomatic, media, cultural and academic spheres. Together, they will reflect on the ways in which the French language helps to build lasting and meaningful connections in Ontario, across Canada and around the world.
Guest panellists
- His Excellency Appolinaire Aya, Ambassador of the Republic of the Congo to Canada
- Xavier Brassard-Bédard, President and CEO of TFO
- Marie-Christine Morin, Executive Director of the Fédération culturelle canadienne-française
- Dr. Jonathan Paquette, International Francophonie Research Chair on Cultural Heritage Policies chairholder, University of Ottawa
Key topics of the round table
- The growing role of Francophone cultural diplomacy;
- The influence of the French language on community development;
- The contribution of institutional, cultural, and academic leaders to the growth of a strong and inclusive Francophonie.
Media Contact:
Laetitia Walbert
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
Laetitia.walbert@ontario.ca
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Lieutenant Governor Celebrates Ontario Athletes Heading to the Winter Games
TORONTO (Ontario), February 6, 2026 – The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, has released a message of encouragement recognizing Ontario athletes participating in the upcoming Milan–Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
In her message, the Lieutenant Governor highlights the role of sport as “a powerful form of cultural diplomacy” and how the Games are able to bring together nations and cultures in a spirit of mutual understanding before a global audience.
Referring to the athletes as “ambassadors” for both Ontario and Canada, she tells them, “Through competition, you find connection, you build bridges, and you embody values that are dear to us in Ontario.”
The Lieutenant Governor shared her best wishes with the athletes, wishing them many unforgettable moments.
We invite you to watch her message and join us in celebrating the athletic excellence of Ontario’s athletes—and of Team Canada.
Media Contact:
Laetitia Walbert
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario to host Black History Month exhibit at Queen’s Park
TORONTO (Ontario), February 6, 2026 — The Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario is pleased to announce a special in-suite exhibit in celebration of Black History Month, featuring collections from the Canada Black Music Archives, Black Diasporas TkarontoToronto, and the Archives of Ontario. It will showcase the rich contributions of diverse Black communities to Ontario’s cultural heritage.
Featured Exhibitions:
Canada Black Music Archives (CBMA) will be sharing materials from its collection and from its exhibit B’LACK THEN: Muted Melodies, which highlight the untold stories of 23 Black artists through photographs, albums, newspaper clippings, films, artifacts, and other materials.
Black Diasporas Tkaronto-Toronto traces life journeys of people of African ancestry through a multifaceted, immersive, and interactive installation that brings together a curated set of short community-led films and oral history narratives, exemplifying the diversity of experiences of the 265,000+ people from the African diaspora living in TkarontoToronto.
The Archives of Ontario will share a selection of images from its forthcoming on-site exhibition Illuminate Black: Shining Light on the Black Presence in Ontario, which explores the rich and complex histories of Black communities in Ontario from the earliest arrivals to the present day. The collection highlights themes including Black joy, Black culture and Black resilience.
“During Black History Month, this cultural gathering offers a unique opportunity to celebrate and honour the lasting contributions of Black communities that have shaped Ontario’s history and social fabric”, stated the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.
The exhibit will take place in the Lieutenant Governor’s Suite at Queen’s Park from February 11 to 13, 2026.
Exhibit Schedule:
- Wednesday, February 11 – 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Thursday, February 12 – 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- Friday, February 13 – 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
The exhibit is free and open to the public. To plan your visit: https://www.ola.org/en/visit-learn
Media Contact:
Laetitia Walbert
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
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The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, receives France’s Légion d’honneur
OTTAWA (Ontario), December 10, 2025 — Her Honour the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, was awarded the prestigious Legion of Honour of the French Republic by the Ambassador of French to Canada, Mr. Michel Miraillet, on December 10, 2025.
The Legion of Honour, France’s highest order of merit, was created by Napoleon Bonaparte, who, after becoming Emperor of the French, made the first formal presentation of the insignia in 1804. The Legion of Honour continues to be awarded in recognition of outstanding civilian or military achievements in any field. It can be presented to foreign personalities who have made extraordinary (cultural, economic, scientific, etc.) contributions to France or have furthered causes (humanitarian causes, human rights, freedom of the press, the Francophonie, etc.) to which France is committed.
This distinction honours Ms. Dumont’s unwavering commitment to the vitality of Ontario’s Francophone community, to strengthening cultural, educational and human ties between France and Canada, and to promoting the language and culture of a diverse Francophone community in Ontario and beyond.
“It is a profound honour and a true privilege to pay tribute today to a tireless champion of the French language in Ontario and across Canada, an educator at heart and a true friend of France,” said Mr. Michel Miraillet, Ambassador of France to Canada.
“This recognition goes far beyond my personal journey—it celebrates a collective commitment, shared values, and above all, the unbreakable bonds that unite our two countries,” said the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. “This distinction reminds me of my responsibility to continue working to promote the Francophonie and strengthen the bridges between our communities,” she added.
The ceremony took place in the presence of the Ambassador of France to Canada, dignitaries, and members of Ontario’s Francophone community.
The Legion of Honour is one of many distinctions received by Ms. Dumont in recognition of her exceptional leadership and commitment to public service, including: Member of the Order of Ottawa (2017), Chevalier de l’Ordre des Palmes académiques (2018), Chevalière de l’Ordre de la Pléiade (2021), Member of the Order of Ontario (2023), Dame of Justice of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem (2024), and King Charles III Coronation Medal (2024).
Media Contact:
Laetitia Walbert
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
Frédéric Paruta
Embassy of France in Canada
frederic.paruta@diplomatie.gouv.fr
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Sabine Soumare has officially joined the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario
We are very pleased to share that Sabine Soumare has officially joined the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario as Chief of Staff and Private Secretary
Sabine is a bilingual senior executive with more than 15 years of experience in public service, government relations, and stakeholder diplomacy. Her career has been defined by a deep commitment to democratic institutions, equity, and reconciliation — and by a leadership style rooted in strategic thinking, inclusive team development, and meaningful engagement.
Prior to joining the Office, Sabine served as Executive Director of the Women Entrepreneurship Knowledge Hub at Toronto Metropolitan University, where she led a national team and built partnerships with hundreds of stakeholders, including Indigenous communities, governments, and international organizations. Her previous roles span communications, policy, and governance, including senior positions in Ontario’s public service and the francophone community.
In her new role, Sabine will support the Lieutenant Governor in her constitutional, ceremonial, and community responsibilities. Her experience in protocol-sensitive environments and her ability to build strong relationships across sectors will be invaluable as we continue to represent the Crown and serve the people of Ontario.
Please join us in welcoming Sabine to the Office.
Treaties Recognition Week
Treaties Recognition Week is a meaningful time to reflect on the relationships that shape our shared history and future
Treaties are not just documents from the past — they are ongoing commitments that call on all of us to listen, learn, and engage with care and respect.
This week, I encourage non-Indigenous people to take time to explore the histories and responsibilities connected to the land we live on. Attend a local event, read from Indigenous voices, or start a conversation in your community.
As part of this week, the Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario is collaborating with the Mushkegowuk Council, the Archives of Ontario and Queen’s University Archives on a display of Treaty 9, The James Bay Treaty. Hosted in the Lieutenant Governor’s Suite, this initiative will spotlight the history of Treaty 9 and provide a space for Indigenous voices to be heard and honoured. The suite will be open at various times throughout the week for public tours and school groups
You can visit the Treaty by joining a public tour at the Legislative Assembly on the following days and times:
- Monday, November 3rd – Public viewing (1:00 – 3:00pm)
- Tuesday, November 4th – Public viewing (10:00 am -12:00pm, 1:00 – 3:00pm)
- Wednesday, November 5th – Public viewing (1:00 – 3:00pm)
- Thursday, November 6th – Public viewing (10:00 am -12:00pm, 1:00 – 3:00pm)
- Friday, November 7th – Public viewing (1:00 – 3:00pm)
It’s a space for reflection, learning, and connection — and I look forward to welcoming you there.
? To book a tour: www.ola.org/en/visit-learn
Warm regards,
The Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario
Lieutenant Governor to Visit Kingston to Highlight Francophone Education, Military Heritage, and Youth Support Services
October 27, 2025. The Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, will make an Official Visit to the City of Kingston on Monday, October 27, 2025.
Her Honour will visit local Francophone secondary schools, meet with His Worship Bryan Paterson, Mayor of the City of Kingston, tour the Royal Military College of Canada, and visit Youth Diversion to engage with staff and volunteers supporting at-risk youth in the community.
This will be Her Honour’s fourteenth official visit in Ontario.
Itinerary
Monday, October 27, 2025
10:00 a.m. – Tour of École Secondaire Publique Mille-Îles/École Secondaire Catholique Marie-Rivier
Her Honour will tour Francophone secondary schools and meet with students and staff.
Photos available upon request
11:30 a.m. – Meeting with His Worship Mayor Bryan Paterson and Tour of Kingston City Hall
The Lieutenant Governor will meet with Mayor Paterson at City Hall, followed by a tour and reception with City Councillors and City staff.
Photos available upon request
Media Availability – available upon request following the City Hall visit
1:45 p.m. – Visit to the Royal Military College of Canada
Her Honour will tour the campus and attend a reception with naval and officer cadets.
Photos available upon request
3:20 p.m. – Visit to Youth Diversion
Her Honour will visit Youth Diversion and participate in a roundtable conversation with staff and volunteers.
Photos available upon request
Media Contact:
Laetitia Walbert
Office of the Lieutenant Governor
Communications and Public Engagement
City of Kingston
communications@cityofkingston.ca
Lt Joel Breton
Public Affairs Officer
Royal Military College of Canada
Canadian Armed Forces
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