As part of celebrations for its 150th anniversary, the Supreme Court of Canada has opened the judicial year with its first ceremonial opening in 39 years, according to Nationalmagazine. The last such event took place in 1986 under then-Chief Justice Brian Dickson, during a period when the Court was addressing challenging issues and the Charter was new.
Return to Tradition and New Attire
The Court had previously ended the practice of ceremonial openings around the same time that Parliament ceased prorogation ceremonies in 1983 under former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau. Historically, dating back to 1939, the chief justice would read the prorogation speech, which listed government accomplishments for the closing session of parliament. This practice began when Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King called for a prorogation while the governor general was out of town.
The recent ceremony also served as the debut for new ceremonial robes worn by the justices. These black robes feature red piping along the sides and utilize a modern, simple design. Chief Justice Richard Wagner stated that the robes are intended to preserve the authority and dignity of the judicial role while reflecting Canadian values and identity more authentically. Wagner noted that the design echoes a commitment to accessibility and openness in a way that is distinctly Canadian.
To highlight Canadian innovation, craftsmanship, and talent, the robes were crafted entirely within Canada. According to the Court, the attire represents a balance between openness to the future and the weight of tradition.
Institutional Changes and Relocation
Chief Justice Wagner used the event to announce the establishment of the Historical Society of the Supreme Court of Canada. This new initiative, co-chaired by former registrar Anne Roland and former justice Thomas Cromwell, is designed to promote education, foster research, engage in public outreach, and help preserve the legacy and history of the Court.
The ceremony also marked the final session held in the current Supreme Court building. The Court will relocate to the West Memorial Building across the street for approximately the next 10 years to allow for necessary renovations to the current facility.
Defense of Democracy and the Rule of Law
The ceremony was marked by a palpable sense of the weight of current events. Chief Justice Wagner reiterated previous comments that the rule of law is non-negotiable and that Canada is a democratic superpower. He cited concerns regarding frayed trading relationships and members of the United Nations Security Council who act in open defiance of sovereignty, self-determination, and norms of territorial integrity.
Another speaker, Fraser, emphasized that ordinary Canadians, justices of the Supreme Court, and elected officials must all take ownership of democracy. Fraser warned that failing to do so could lead to a gradual erosion of rights until there is no one left to defend them, noting that it would be an enormous mistake to expect someone else to do this work for us. Fraser further stressed the necessity of respecting the Court’s ability to perform its duties regardless of any political challenges.
During the proceedings, Wagner quoted Brian Dickson from the 1986 ceremony, noting that the Supreme Court of Canada remains essentially a general court of appeal for the country.
