AMC welcomes Her Excellency Mary J. Simon as Canada’s 30th Governor General
July 6, 2021
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba
alexpapineau
Treaty One Territory, Manitoba – The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC) issues this statement today in recognition of the appointment of Mary J. Simon, Inuk from Kangiqsualujjuaq, in the Nunavik region of Northern Quebec, as Canada’s first Indigenous Governor General. The Governor General-elect has been approved by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and will be formally installed in the not too distant future. Ms. Simon is the past president of the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), a former Canadian diplomat, and a former journalist.
Grand Chief Arlen Dumas states, “On behalf of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, and all First Nations citizens in Manitoba, I congratulate and welcome Her Excellency, Mary J. Simon, as Canada’s first Indigenous Governor General in 154 years. The symbolism of this appointment will not be lost on Canadians. This is a momentous occasion for First Nations and other Indigenous peoples in this country, one that sends a strong signal to the country during these difficult times that reconciliation with Indigenous peoples remains critical to the future of Canada.”
“As a fluent speaker of my Cree language, it was amazing to hear the Inuktitut language spoken by the new Governor General at this morning’s press conference.”
Grand Chief Dumas added, “I wish Ms. Simon well in her new role and look forward to inviting the Governor General to meet with Chiefs in her official capacity, to discuss the importance of the Office of the Governor General to our sacred Treaties in what is now Manitoba.”