Thank you, Mary Simon

As the Right Honourable Mary Simon concludes her tenure as Governor General of Canada, we want to voice our appreciation for this remarkable woman.

As the first Inuk Governor General, Her Excellency brought to Rideau Hall a deep understanding of who Inuit are, where we have been and where we are going. Throughout her entire career, she amplified Inuit voices and championed Indigenous languages and ways of knowing. She reminded Canada and the world that our cultures are living, thriving and essential. She blazed an impressive trail that we are honoured to follow.

A quote from Shelagh D. Grant in the Foreword of her Excellency’s 1996 book Inuit: One Future — One Arctic still stands true 30 years later: “Those of us who have come to know Mary well realize that behind the vast accumulation of experience and knowledge is a fierce determination to improve the lives of her people — a commitment which has earned her recognition and respect throughout the world.”

When she visited our Iqaluit office in April 2024, she shared in our mission of empowerment, celebrated our growth and reminded us that we are on the right track. Her belief in Inuit and in Ilitaqsiniq has meant everything to our team and to our communities.

From everyone at Ilitaqsiniq, we say with full hearts: Qujannamiik Mary Simon for your service to Canada. Qujannamiik for your dedication and hard work for our people. You have made us proud.