Happy Birthday Canada. On this day a hundred and forty-nine years ago, the people of this great land came together. There were no longer be an Upper Canada or a Lower Canada, a Canada West or a Canada East.

Instead there would be one nation, one country, one Canada. From the outset, Canada was formed not in spite of differences, but because of them. Today, as we celebrate our nation's birthday, let us also celebrate our diversity. It united us in the past.

It binds us together today and it is at the very heart of our future success. No matter our faith, where we were born, what color our skin, what language we speak, or whom we love, we are all equal members of this great country.

We have all worked very hard to build the diverse, inclusive and prosperous nation that we all love so much. And I believe Canada and Canadians like you represent the very best vision of the future for our world.

On behalf of our family, Sophie and I wish you a very happy Canada Day. Happy Canada Day.