April 1 to 4, 2024
Governor General Mary Simon and Mr. Whit Fraser completed an official visit to Nunavut where they marked the territory’s 25th anniversary. In Iqaluit and Qikiqtarjuaq, the Governor General met with territorial dignitaries, municipal leaders, Elders and youth.
April 1, 2024
Upon their arrival in Iqaluit, Their Excellencies went to the Legislative Assembly and were greeted by the Honourable Eva Qamaniq Aariak, Commissioner of Nunavut and the Honourable P. J. Akeeagok, Premier of Nunavut, as well as by other dignitaries.
Later on, Her Excellency was honoured to invest John Amagoalik as an Officer of the Order of Canada during a private ceremony.
In the evening, the Governor General joined Nunavummiut in marking the territory’s 25th anniversary at a community celebration. She delivered remarks at the beginning of the event.
April 2, 2024
The Governor General visited the Pirurvik Centre in Iqaluit where she met with students, former students and staff members. The centre offers an array of training programs that strive to meet the needs of Nunavummiut, transmit Inuit knowledge and bolster Inuit identity.
April 3, 2024
The Governor General met with knowledge keepers and members of the staff of Ilitaqsiniq, who spoke about their programming and “Inu-vative” approach.
She also met with some of the founders of the Qajakkut Society to learn about their efforts to reclaim and disseminate qajaq (kayak)-building knowledge throughout Nunavut.
The Governor General then visited the Qajuqturvik Community Food Centre where she engaged with residents of Iqaluit during the community meal.
In the afternoon, the Governor General met with young Nunavummiut to listen to their perspectives on and concerns about climate change.
She then exchanged stories with Elders over tea at the Elders’ Qammaq.
April 4, 2024
The Governor General met and conversed with residents of Qikiqtarjuaq, including Elders, hunters, seamstresses, carvers, search and rescue volunteers, and Canadian Rangers.
In the afternoon, she also met with students at the Inuksuit School. She engaged with students on one of the eight Inuit societal values, specifically Avatittinnik Kamatsiarniq (respect and care for the land, animals and the environment).
