Canada’s Highest Civilian Honour? Or a Tool of State Propaganda?
Once upon a time, the Order of Canada stood for something. It was a symbol of excellence—awarded to individuals whose work, courage, or innovation enriched our country in extraordinary ways. According to a searing opinion piece by Amy Hamm in the National Post, the Order of Canada has abandoned its original purpose—no longer a symbol of honour and achievement, but a reward for ideological loyalty and political obedience.
What’s Really Going On?
The Order of Canada, created in 1967, is supposed to recognize Canadians “whose service shapes our society.” But in recent years, it’s become clear that politics now plays a bigger role than merit in deciding who receives this award.
Writer and nurse Amy Hamm shines a spotlight on how the honour system is being manipulated—not to recognize exceptional Canadians, but to elevate those who faithfully support government narratives, especially when it comes to health policy, gender ideology, and COVID-19 mandates.
Case in Point: Theresa Tam and Bonnie Henry
Two prominent recipients of the Order of Canada are Dr. Theresa Tam, Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer. Both were heavily involved in the country’s pandemic response.
Were their actions heroic? Many would argue they were confusing, heavy-handed, and in many cases, harmful. Public trust eroded as mandates shifted without clear evidence, concerns about vaccine safety were dismissed and honest debate was shut down.
So why were they awarded the nation’s highest civilian honour?
Because in today’s Canada, compliance with the prevailing narrative is the fastest path to prestige.
An Honour System Built on Image
According to the article, the Order of Canada has been hollowed out—reduced to a branding exercise for the state, where those who question authority are ignored or vilified, while those who amplify government messages are put on a pedestal.
This is particularly troubling in the context of free speech, bodily autonomy, and medical choice.
Imagine devoting your life to science or advocacy, only to be overlooked for the Order because your views challenge the status quo. Meanwhile, others are celebrated not for measurable contributions, but because they tick the right political boxes.
Why This Matters for Medical Freedom
When state honours are used to reward obedience instead of courage, we all suffer. It sends a chilling message: If you speak the truth—especially uncomfortable truths—you won’t be honoured. You’ll be silenced.
This undermines public confidence not just in awards, but in all our institutions: health care, media, education, and government.
A Call to Canadians
Canada’s honour system shouldn’t be a political tool. It should inspire us. But today, it reflects a culture where image trumps truth, and obedience is more prized than independent thought.
Canadians deserve better. We need to restore integrity to our institutions—starting with how we define and reward true leadership.
You can find the front page National Post piece here.
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