Louise Arbour Takes Office as Canada’s 31st Governor General, Vows to Amplify Canadians’ Diverse Voices

OTTAWA, Ontario, June 8, 2026 — Canada officially welcomed its 31st Governor General and Commander-in-Chief on Monday as Her Excellency the Right Honourable Louise Arbour was formally installed during a ceremony in the Senate Chamber in Ottawa.

The installation marks the beginning of a new chapter for one of the country's most distinguished public servants, who now assumes the Crown’s representative role in Canada.

Following the ceremony, Governor General Arbour paid tribute to Canada's fallen service members by laying flowers at the National War Memorial. She then proceeded to Rideau Hall, where she received military honours and conducted a brief inspection of a guard of honour before being welcomed by family members, staff of the Office of the Secretary to the Governor General, and members of the Governor General’s Foot Guards.

In her first remarks as Governor General, Arbour emphasized her commitment to engaging with Canadians from all walks of life and celebrating the country's rich diversity.

"As I take on my new role, I am mindful of the privilege given to me to go out and meet with Canadians across this country and to discover the wealth of ideas and ideals that inspire them," she said. "I am preparing myself to be surprised and to confront my own stereotypes and unconscious biases."

Arbour added that she looks forward to learning from Canadians and sharing their stories, both at home and abroad.

"When I am called upon to represent Canada beyond our borders or to welcome foreign dignitaries here at home, it is this diversity of Canadian voices that I intend to showcase," she said.

Official photographs, the installation speech, and the Governor General’s biography have been made available through the Office of the Governor General. Canadians who were unable to attend or watch the ceremony live can rewatch the event through Canadian Heritage’s online platforms.

The installation places Arbour at the helm of one of Canada’s most prominent constitutional offices, where she will serve as a symbol of national unity while carrying out key ceremonial, constitutional, and community-building responsibilities on behalf of the Crown.