We have a new Governor General

Michaëlle Jean officially became the new Governor General of Canada in a ceremony today. Jean replaces Adrienne Clarkson, who served her 5-year term.

The road to this moment has been rather stormy. Jean recently gave up her French citizenship. Also, Jean has come under controversy over accusations of being a separatist.

A little background: separatist in this case refers to those who want Quebec to be a separate country, yet economically connected to Canada. The French Canadians want Quebec's distinctions to be incorporated either within Canada, or if not successful, its own country. This comes much to the chagrin of the rest of the country, especially in the West. Needless to say, if found to be a separtist, being Governor-General would be difficult. However, Jean has steadfastly denied ever being one.

During her speech at her investiture ceremonies, Jean made a clear plea for Canadian unity. "The narrow notion of 'every person for himself' does not belong in today's world, which demands that we learn to see beyond our wounds, beyond our differences for the good of all," Jean said. "Quite the contrary: We must eliminate the spectre of all the solitudes and promote solidarity among all the citizens who make up the Canada of today."

Jean is well known among Montreal Haitians for her work as a television host on the French service of the CBC. She is the first black and the third woman to be Governor General.

The Governor General is the representative of the Canadian monarch, which amazingly is Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom (who can be found on the money in Canada). The Governor General summons, prorogues, and dissolves Parliament. Also, the Governor General performs some of the functions normally associated with heads of state. The Governor General's functions are primarily ceremonial. He or she serves a symbolic role as the Commander-in-Chief of the Canadian Armed Forces.