Canadian Geographic Launches “Our Country–Notre Pays” National Unity Project Celebrating the Voices and Places that Define Canada
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ottawa, ON, June 11, 2025
Canadian Geographic is proud to launch Our Country–Notre Pays, a sweeping new national unity project that brings together the voices of extraordinary Canadians sharing their most meaningful places in the country and what makes Canada special to them. This multi-year project is a priority initiative that will lead to Canadian Geographic’s 100th anniversary in 2029-2030.
Developed by Canadian Geographic and made possible with the participation of the
Government of Canada, Our Country–Notre Pays maps the heart and soul of Canada through
storytelling, illustration, and digital innovation. At its core is a dynamic interactive map of
Canada featuring personal reflections and original illustrations of each contributor, offering an
immersive exploration of the diverse regions, cultures, and landscapes that make up our shared
home.
Participants in the project include legendary astronaut Dr. Roberta Bondar, acclaimed actor
Tantoo Cardinal, broadcast icon Peter Mansbridge, comedian and commentator Rick Mercer, renowned artist Kent Monkman, Paralympic champion Chantal Petitclerc, actor and writer Andrew Phung, and celebrated author Guy Vanderhaeghe.
A powerful video series accompanies the map, featuring evocative new stories from luminaries
including Margaret Atwood, Indigenous playwright and musician Tomson Highway, and
adventurer and author Adam Shoalts. More vignettes will be released in the coming weeks.
“This is a portrait of Canada told through its people and places — an invitation for Canadians to
reflect on the land that connects us all,” said John Geiger, CEO of the Royal Canadian
Geographical Society. “Our Country–Notre Pays is a testament to the spirit of unity that lives in
our geography and our shared stories.”
The project coincides with the release of Canadian Geographic magazine’s special Canada
Day edition, True North Strong and Free, featuring thoughtful contributions from some of the
country’s most compelling voices, including Wade Davis, Francine Pelletier, Valerie Pringle, Niigaanwewidam Sinclair, and Mel Woods.
A special poster map will be included in every edition of the magazine which was specially
created to show Canada from space, and includes an original artwork of a hand clutching a
maple leaf with the words “True North Strong and Free,” by artist Robert Carter. The creation of the map was made possible by the Mitchell Legacy Foundation.
“It’s a special time in our country’s history,” said the Hon. Lois Mitchell, President of the RCGS. “We are coming together now more than ever to protect our values, what makes us unique, andhow we can learn from one another. That’s what makes Canadian Geographic so special, because it was founded to be a vehicle to promote national unity.”
“Our Country–Notre Pays is about showcasing the emotional and cultural geography of this
country,” said Tim Joyce, Executive Producer of the project. “It’s an honour to share these
deeply personal reflections from Canadians who have pushed boundaries and shaped our
collective identity.”
Canadian Geographic continues to be one of Canada’s most trusted media and educational
charities, with a monthly readership of 4.4 million and an educational network of 28,000
teachers reaching classrooms across the country.
To explore the stories and places featured in Our Country–Notre Pays, visit:
ENGLISH: https://ourcountry.canadiangeographic.ca/
FRENCH: https://notrepays.canadiangeographic.ca/
Media Contact:
Rosemary Thompson
Vice President
[email protected]
613-240-6739
About Canadian Geographic
Canadian Geographic is published by the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, a non-profit
organization dedicated to making Canada better known to Canadians and the world. With
award-winning storytelling, trusted educational resources, and impactful public programs,
Canadian Geographic is a powerful voice for the land, people, and stories of Canada.
