Bookmark Article
On May 27, 2025, the opening of Canada’s 45th Parliament featured a traditional ceremony involving the Usher of the Black Rod, J. Greg Peters, who was ceremoniously denied entry to the House of Commons before announcing the King’s message. This ritual, rooted in historical assertions of parliamentary independence from the Crown, included a ceremonial challenge and reflects a longstanding practice dating back to 1791, when the position was created. The event was simpler than its British counterpart, lacking the elaborate security measures and formalities typical in Westminster, as both chambers were temporarily relocated due to renovations.
