LAST week, Governor General Mary Simon made 88 new appointments to the Order of Canada, including former Port Dover resident Lorin MacDonald. Ms. MacDonald received the honour for her work advocating for people with disabilities.

“Born with profound hearing loss, Lorin MacDonald is a human rights lawyer and educator championing disability awareness and inclusion. She introduced captioning to remove communication barriers in various academic, legal and theatrical settings. She is a renowned disability leader, and her personal journey and legal advocacy make her an inspirational role model,” says her Order of Canada citation.

Ms. MacDonald grew up in Port Dover and graduated from Port Dover Composite School. From 1996–2000, she owned and operated The Printed Word Office Services on Main Street, “which was made accessible with the addition of a ramp on the side of the house next to Roulston’s,” she told the Maple Leaf.

She shared her “profound gratitude” for receiving one of this country’s highest honours.

“As Mahatma Gandhi wisely noted, ‘The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.’ This recognition reflects the collective efforts of countless individuals who have championed accessibility and inclusion in our country. While my journey has included serving both as a human rights lawyer and volunteer advocate over several decades, the true progress has come from our community working together, pushing boundaries, and refusing to accept the status quo. I have been fortunate to receive recognition for this shared work, including the Order of Ontario and the Law Society of Ontario Medal, the profession’s highest honour. Such recognition serves a greater purpose: it helps amplify my voice to create a more accessible and inclusive Canada for people with disabilities. The work continues, and together, we can create lasting change!

“I am deeply grateful for this opportunity to continue serving our community and advancing the cause of accessibility and inclusion across our nation, and I am proud of my Port Dover roots.”

Translated from Latin to English, the Order of Canada’s motto is “They desire a better country.” Ms. MacDonald’s work demonstrates her commitment to improving Canada.

“Members of the Order of Canada are builders of hope for a better future. Each in their own way, they broaden the realm of possibilities and inspire others to continue pushing its boundaries. Thank you for your perseverance, fearless leadership and visionary spirit, and welcome to the Order of Canada,” Gov. Gen. Simon said in a statement.

Ms. MacDonald is a daughter of the late Alan and Evelyn Hobbs and granddaughter of the late Glen and Frances Hobbs.

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Originally published December 24, 2024