Community Celebration
La Ronge, Tuesday, August 24, 2010
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It is a real privilege and a delight to be with you here today in La Ronge—which, I am told, is the largest community in northern Saskatchewan—and to see Chief Tammy Cook Searson again. I had the pleasure of talking with her during my first official visit to Regina in 2006 in the context of a gathering of 13 aboriginal women chiefs and leaders. The discussions we had then were eye openers for me and all of us.
One of the greatest gifts these past five years as Governor General of Canada have afforded me is the ties I have created with the Aboriginal people of this country, who, I often say, are our deepest roots in the Americas.
All across Canada, in every province and territory, I have met with remarkable women, men and young people who are working hard on a daily basis to build solid bridges between ancient traditions and the promises of today.
I have been thrilled to see that, despite all the obstacles, Canada’s young Aboriginal people are dreaming big and want to preserve their heritage and be part of the modern world, which they are inventing according to their aspirations and their willingness to work for the good of their communities, respecting every living thing.
I have learned a lot from you and have taken every opportunity to share what you have said and done with people here in Canada and everywhere I have travelled abroad.
I believe it is necessary and vital that we nourish the dialogue between us to better understand what we are collectively and encourage more openness to your history, which is the oldest in this country and on this continent.
I have been looking forward to this meeting with the community of La Ronge, as I believe that your vitality and success are development models, not only for Aboriginal communities across Canada, but for all our communities.
I cannot wait to hear how you have worked together to overcome challenges and embrace the possibilities of community development.
I am convinced that your words and actions hold the promise of a better life and that they will spark a bonfire of joy.
I feel it now, standing before you, as I believe that we, as human beings, are united when exchanged ideas warm our hearts.
Thank you very much for your warm welcome. Please know you can always count on my friendship and my gratitude.
