It is with great sorrow that I have learned of the death of Gordon Hamilton Southam, a man of culture and conviction who advanced the cause of Canadian arts and heritage within the National Capital Region.
The first Director General of the National Arts Centre of Canada, Hamilton Southam is regarded as the founder of North America's only bilingual, multidisciplinary performing arts centre. In addition to giving Canadians exceptional access to the country's and the world's artists, especially in the hall named in his honour, Mr. Southam devoted himself to preserving Canada's military heritage. He helped establish the Canadian War Museum as well as the Valiants Memorial, located a few steps from the Parliament of Canada in Confederation Square. In addition, he created the Battle of Normandy Foundation to mark the 50th anniversary of D-Day and to win recognition for the courage and dedication of the Canadians who took part in this battle. Mr. Southam served his country during the Second World War. He was an Officer of the Order of Canada.
As Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages and Minister for La Francophonie, I offer my deepest condolences to Mr. Southam's family and friends.
Information:
Dominic Gosselin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages and Minister for La Francophonie
819 997-7788
