Canadian Estonians decorated
- ellenvalter
- Apr 2
- 2 min read
Update #244
KESKUS leads Veiko Parming and Ellen Valter receive service medals
In late March, the long-awaited King Charles III Coronation Medal ceremony took place in the University-Rosedale area of Toronto, and two Estonians were among the recipients: KESKUS leaders Veiko Parming and Ellen Valter.
The medals were presented on behalf of Canada's head of state, the Governor General.
The medal program was first announced by the Prime Minister three days before the coronation, on May 3, 2023. One year later the Governor General presented the first medals to Lieutenant Governors and Territorial Commissioners in a virtual event.
Eligible candidates for the King Charles III Coronation Medal must have made a significant contribution to Canada or to a particular province, territory, region or community of Canada, or have made an outstanding achievement abroad that brings credit to Canada.
"It is truly an honour to be recognized," said Veiko Parming, "that the promotion of 'Estonianness' in Estonia is valued is understandable. That Canada values what Estonians have contributed to Canada is yet another level."
The beautiful recognition ceremony was followed by a coffee and cake reception. "Almost everyone I spoke to at the reception has some connection to Estonia, whether they have an Estonian neighbour, for example, or they walk past the KESKUS site and are now following the project," Ellen said with a smile, "The reach of Estonia and its people is broad and extends to every field - it is an honour to be recognized for promoting it!"
The medal was designed by Cathy Bursey-Sabourin, Fraser Herald at the Canadian Heraldic Authority at the Chancellery of Honours, Rideau Hall. The medal is struck in nickel-silver and lacquered to prevent tarnishing. It is manufactured by the Royal Canadian Mint.
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There are many ways to make a contribution to KESKUS.
To donate, click here, or call +1.647.250.7136 or email donations@estoniancentre.ca. Donations may be made as a family gift, or in honour of an individual or family. All donations are issued a tax receipt, in Canada via Estonian Arts Centre, US tax receipts via Myriad USA and Estonian tax receipts via Eesti Rahvuskultuuri Fond. Donations by credit card may be made here.
Legacy gifts made to the Estonian Arts Centre, the charity associated with KESKUS, are creative and tax-effective ways to provide support. These are known as “planned gifts” because with thoughtful planning, we create a win-win situation that benefits both you and our community for generations to come. Find out how to provide a bequest in your will by going to www.estoniancentre.ca/bequest.
For information on making other types of planned gifts, including gifts of appreciated securities or insurance policies, or if you have any other questions, please contact EAC Donations Manager Taimi Hooper via email at donations@estoniancentre.ca or phone +1.647.250.7136.
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