Mary Simon has been named as Canada’s first Indigenous Governor-General.
Gatekeepers News reports that Mary, an Inuk leader who has served as a Canadian diplomat, will become the nation’s 30th Governor-General.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the announcement on Tuesday at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Quebec, saying “Simon’s career of leadership and service has always been one of breaking down barriers.”
He noted that “it is only by building bridges” can the people of Canada move forward together and “Mary Simon has done that throughout her life.”
“I know she will help continue paving that path ahead. And we will all be stronger for it. Today after 154 years, our country takes a historic step. I cannot think of a better person to meet the moment.″
Trudeau noted that Queen Elizabeth has approved the appointment of her representative in Canada.
In her reaction to the development, Simon said she is “honoured, humbled and ready to be Canada’s first Indigenous governor-general”.
Simon described her appointment as a “historic and inspirational moment for Canada, and a step forward on the long path towards reconciliation.”
Gatekeepers News reports that Simon’s appointment follows the revelation that hundreds of unmarked graves of children have been found on the grounds of former residential schools across Canada – institutions to which Indigenous children were forcibly relocated for generations.
Simon replaces Julie Payette, who stepped down in January following a report that found that she had created a toxic workplace environment.
Born in Kangiqsualujjuaq, in the Nunavik region of Northern Quebec, Simon worked with the Northern Quebec Inuit Association (NQIA), which was later renamed the Makivik Corporation, and also served as president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), a national Inuit organisation.
In 1991, she was named a member of the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest honours, and later an officer of the Order of Canada. She also served as Canada’s ambassador for circumpolar affairs and as ambassador to Denmark.
