OTTAWA – Governor General Mary Simon, the first Indigenous person appointed to the position, has focused on the theme of reconciliation in the government’s speech since taking the throne with an introduction written by herself.
In a speech she gave at the Inuktitut, Simon encouraged MPs to learn about the realities of living in the First Nations, Inuit and Metis communities.
Speaking in French, she also touched on revelations of unmarked graves at residential schools across Canada that have “opened deep wounds”.
She said reconciliation is not a single act with no end date, but rather “a lifelong journey of healing, respect and understanding.”
The throne speeches are written by the Prime Minister’s Office but governors can add some lines of their own.
The speech said the government would accelerate action in coordination with Indigenous partners to address the national crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous LGBTQ women, girls and people.
It says mediation requires a “whole government” approach, breaking down barriers and innovative strategies to accelerate the work that needs to be done.
This Canadian Press report was first published on November 23, 2021.
——
This story was made possible with the financial support of Facebook and the Canada Press News Fellowship.
.
