On February 1, 2006, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, the Governor General of Canada, issued this statement from Rideau Hall:
May she rest in peace.
In my opinion, she was an inspiration to Canada and to the world.Her Excellency the Rt. Hon. Michaëlle Jean said:“It is with much sadness that Jean-Daniel Lafond and I have learned that a great voice for equality, human rights and freedoms has fallen silent.
Coretta Scott King, widow of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, was a woman of remarkable resolve. Guided by her convictions, she always found the strength to continue the fight they had led together with unswerving determination.
Her voice may now be silent but she has encouraged so many others to speak up and be heard. She has been an inspiration to many of us who, like her, share her vision of peace and solidarity. The world is truly a better place for her having played such an active role in it.
On behalf of all Canadians, we extend our deepest sympathies to Mrs. King’s family and friends.”
May she rest in peace.