National Order of Quebec
The National Order of Quebec (French: l'Ordre national du Québec), often referred to as the Order of Quebec, is the highest civilian honour bestowed by the province of Quebec. Established on June 20, 1984, through the Loi sur l'Ordre national du Québec (National Order of Quebec Act), this order of merit recognizes individuals who have made conspicuous achievements in any field, contributing significantly to the province's prestige and heritage.
Administered by the Governor-in-Council, the order is designed to pay homage to the people of Quebec, as reflected in its motto: Honneur au peuple du Québec.
Key Facts
- Established: June 20, 1984.
- Purpose: To honour current or former Quebec residents for exceptional achievements.
- Motto: "Honneur au peuple du Québec" (Homage to the people of Quebec).
- Founder: Gilles Lamontagne.
- Eligibility: Quebec residents nominated by the Council and non-Quebecers nominated by the Premier.
- Highest Grade: Grand Officer (GOQ).
Structure and Appointments
While the order was established via royal assent from the lieutenant governor and the Canadian sovereign remains the fount of honour (the ultimate source of all honours), the viceroy does not function as an explicit part of the organization. Instead, the monarch's representative is involved only through their position in the government of Quebec (the council).
The order is organized into three hierarchical grades, each with specific post-nominal letters used in the Canadian order of precedence:
- Grand Officer (grand officier/grande officière; GOQ)
- Officer (officier/officière; OQ)
- Knight (chevalier/chevalière; CQ)
Insignia and Symbolism
The insignia of the National Order of Quebec were designed by Madeleine Dansereau. The designs draw inspiration from the heraldic elements of the provincial flag, specifically the blue and white color palette and the fleur-de-lis (a stylized lily symbol).
Members receive a medallion, a miniature, and a button. The specific designs vary by grade:
- Grand Officer: Two 18 kt gold plates forming a cross (60mm x 40mm) with a white enamel fleur-de-lis on the obverse and the order's motto on the reverse.
- Officer: A similar cross design (50mm x 25mm) featuring an 18k gold obverse plate with a gold fleur-de-lis and a sterling silver reverse.
- Knight: A brushed silver medallion (40mm diameter) with an etched cross (30mm x 20mm) and a gold fleur-de-lis.
Miniature versions (18mm) and lapel pins are provided for different dress codes. Men wear emblems on a 38mm wide ribbon—at the collar for Grand Officers and Officers, or on a medal bar for Knights. Women wear the insignia on a ribbon bow at the left shoulder for Grand Officers and Officers, while Knights follow the same protocol as men.
Induction ceremonies typically take place in the Salon Rouge of the parliament building in Quebec City during the National Week or on the National Holiday of Quebec, with the Premier presenting the insignia. Because the insignia remain the property of the Crown in Right of Quebec, they must be returned upon the member's death or dismissal.
Summary of Order Grades
| Grade | Post-Nominal | Primary Material | Key Design Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Officer | GOQ | 18 kt Gold | White enamel fleur-de-lis; 60mm cross |
| Officer | OQ | Gold & Sterling Silver | Gold fleur-de-lis; 50mm cross |
| Knight | CQ | Brushed Silver | Gold fleur-de-lis; 40mm medallion |
Notable Inductees
The order has recognized a diverse array of figures across arts, science, politics, and sports. Notable Quebec inductees include Jean Béliveau (hockey), Leonard Cohen (music), Lucien Bouchard (politics), and Céline Dion (music). The order also extends honorary memberships to non-Quebecers, such as former French Presidents François Hollande and Jacques Chirac.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the National Order of Quebec?
Current or former residents of Quebec can be nominated by the Council. Additionally, non-Quebecers may be nominated for honorary membership by the Premier of Quebec.
How is the order administered?
The order is administered by the Governor-in-Council, which refers to the government of Quebec.
What happens to the insignia after a member passes away?
The insignia are the property of the Crown in Right of Quebec and must be returned upon the cessation of membership, whether due to death or dismissal.
Does the National Order of Quebec have a Chancellor?
No. Unlike other provincial orders in Canada, the National Order of Quebec does not have a chancellor.
Where does the induction ceremony take place?
Ceremonies are generally held in the Salon Rouge of the parliament building in Quebec City.