Ordre de la Pléiade
Created in 1976 by the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF), the Ordre de la Pléiade is an international honour that recognizes individuals who have distinguished themselves in serving the ideals of the Francophonie. In Nova Scotia, the awarding of the insignia of the Ordre de la Pléiade pays tribute to important contributions to the development of the Acadian and francophone community.
2011 recipients of the Ordre de la Pléiade, Nova Scotia Section.
Back Row, from left: Pauline Chagnon, Halifax; Jean Melanson, Salmon River, Digby Co.; Hayden Landry, Tusket, Yarmouth Co.; and Gisèle Landry, Grand Etang, Inverness Co.
Front Row, from left: May Bouchard, Pomquet, Antigonish Co.; Cécile Gérin, Halifax; and Donna Boudreau, receiving the medal on behalf of her brother, the late Ronald Landry, Petit-de-Grat, Richmond Co.
Not present: Lucille Amirault, Kingston, Kings Co.; Gérard d'Entremont, Church Point, Digby Co.; and Laurent Lavoie, Sydney, Cape Breton Co.
The Grades of the Ordre de la Pléiade
There are five grades (classes) of the Ordre de la Pléiade: Grand Croix, Grand Officier, Commandeur, Officier, and Chevalier. The awarding of the Ordre de la Pléiade is based on the following criteria:
The grade of Chevalier (or bronze medal) can be conferred to any individual involved in political, social or literary affairs for services rendered to the Francophonie.
The grade of Officier (or silver medal) can be conferred to delegates of the APF and members of parliaments.
The grade of Commandeur (or silver medal topped with a crown) can be conferred to ministers, among others.
The grade of Grand Officier is reserved for speakers of parliamentary assemblies, among others.
The grade of Grand Croix is reserved for heads of state or presidents of the APF at the international level.
Nomination Process
Members of the Legislative Assembly present nominations to the president or the members of the executive council of the local APF section. The nominations selected from amongst these submissions are then sent, with supporting documentation, to the Conseil de l'Ordre de la Pléiade in Paris for approval.
Michel P. Samson (Commandeur) is the President of the Nova Scotia Section.
