Yesterday, May 3, 2016, was memorable not only for its idyllic spring weather but also for a moving ceremony at Cairine Wilson Secondary School in Orleans, Ontario. During the ceremony assorted speakers, including Andrew Leslie, the local MP, lauded Canada’s first woman senator for her tireless work in the Senate and for her indefatigable efforts to bring about a liberalization of Canada’s immigration policy and the admission of refugees to this country. A striking power point presentation, mounted by students, was followed by the unveiling of a Parks Canada Historic Sites and Monuments Board plaque commemorating the national historic significance of this amazing woman.
After the ceremony family members and invited guests assembled in the school’ s library for a gourmet lunch prepared and served by students, who poured tea from a silver tea pot into fine tea cups and distributed dainty sandwiches, scones, sweet breads and jams to tables adorned with fresh tulips. It was a remarkable finale to a memorable occasion.