Regina, Monday, May 8, 2006

My husband Jean Daniel Lafond and I are delighted to begin our first official visit to Saskatchewan here in Regina.

From where we stand today, it’s difficult to fathom how the expression “Pile of Bones” could ever have been an accurate description of this place. “Wascana” is much more poetic sounding and reflects the magnificence of your natural surroundings, a geography that so powerfully informs your culture and the character of your people.

I understand that rapidly changing and dramatic weather is a feature of this “land of living skies”. And that this is part of who you are, the people of Saskatchewan.

The First Nations developed an intricate understanding of their environmental surroundings which allowed them to build a unique way of life based on a strong sense of community and an amazing ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

The philosophy of the first settlers has long been one of autonomy, an ability to adapt to survive. This inspirational resilience is part of the Saskatchewan story that I hope to learn more about while I’m here, and to share with other Canadians when I’m not. My first visit is but the start of a dialogue that I promise will continue.

I would like to take this opportunity to salute the efforts of French‑speaking Saskatchewanians who struggle daily to keep alive their culture and the French language. My husband and I will have the opportunity to meet and talk with you.

This afternoon I have the privilege of visiting the legislature and speaking with your elected representatives. And tomorrow I am being “called” to the beautiful Fort Qu’Appelle area. There I look forward to engage in a meaningful discussion with the people and learn from the wisdom of the elders of the Treaty 4 First Nation and the experiences and challenges confronting their youth.

Tomorrow, Mayor Pat Fiaco will introduce me to the renewal initiatives happening in North Central Regina. I look forward on Wednesday to attending a performance of the NightWind Theatre community youth group, and to meeting 12 women chiefs and elders from across the province.

Finally, no trip to Regina would be complete without a visit to the RCMP Academy!

First, however, I’d like to honour some of you.

Last year Canada marked the 60th anniversary of the end of the Second World War by paying tribute to its veterans: celebrating their courage and commitment to preserving democratic ideals; recognizing their sacrifice and the debt of gratitude we owe them.

This year it is only fitting that we honour the tens of thousands of women who met and married Canadian men overseas, and followed them home, enriching their adopted country in the process.

In Saskatchewan alone, 8,000 war brides arrived to begin a new and unfamiliar life. They experienced the loneliness and isolation that many immigrants face.

Yet most of the war brides remained.

Their integration and endurance is a testimony to their pride and determination to make the best of sometimes extremely difficult situations. Indeed, they fit in so well that their contribution to building post-war Canada has been taken for granted ever since.

On behalf of all Canadians, it gives me great pleasure to express our gratitude for their sacrifices. To salute their courage and commitment. To honour them alongside the brave soldiers they supported.

We thank you for your perseverance. For helping to create the Saskatchewan of today.

Thank you.