Inspiring History

They come from a variety of regions, backgrounds, and disciplines, but the recipients of the 2023 Governor General’s History Awards are united in their commitment to advancing our understanding of the past. Their innovative work makes history engaging and relevant to the communities they serve.

The 2023 recipients — an impressive group of teachers, historians, storytellers, curators, and community leaders — were honoured at a ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa on November 22, 2023. In her opening remarks, Governor General Mary Simon commended the recipients, saying, “You are not only inspiring future historians to keep their minds open to all points of view, but you are also inspiring all Canadians to take an interest and an active role in learning our history.” Her Excellency added, “You are creating history lovers.”

The awards, which were established in 1996, recognize excellence in five categories: Teaching, Museums, Community Programming, Scholarly Research, and Popular Media. While in Ottawa, the recipients had the opportunity to present their work and to connect with their fellow laureates at a daylong symposium. The awards provide an opportunity for leaders in history and heritage to network, taking inspiration from each other’s work and building upon their own initiatives.

As a charitable organization, Canada’s History is grateful to all its award supporters, including the Department of Canadian Heritage, Power Corporation of Canada, the Canadian War Museum, and Ecclesiastical Insurance, as well as the Canadian Historical Association and the Canadian Museums Association. Support for the Governor General’s History Awards helps to inspire excellence in Canadian history, ensuring that the past has a vibrant presence in our schools and communities.