Old Crow, Friday, February 11, 2011

First, I would like to express my sincere apology for not being with you today.  My wife, Sharon, and I know that you have prepared such a feast for our visit.  I would like to thank you for all of the preparations that the community has done to welcome us to your land.

We have just spoken via teleconferencing to the children of the Chief Zzeh Gittlit School. They entertained us with a wonderful song and we were able to have a nice conversation with them. I will tell you what I told them. While we were not able to fly into Old Crow today, we will go and visit you. We promise.

I would like to begin by sharing some words of wisdom, which you may have heard before. One of your Elders, Alfred Charlie,  said: “Things are going to keep on growing and changing; keep growing and changing with it.”

That is what Old Crow has done throughout its history. As the oldest, continuously inhabited part of Canada, the people of Old Crow have seen the changes to this country, and you have adapted.

But what truly impresses me is the way that you have evolved, while retaining your traditions and heritage.

Chief Kassie, I have heard your words, and I know that you have the best at heart for your community.  I know that education is is an ongoing process. What these teachers and Elders have to share is so vital to the future of Old Crow.

I was pleased to discover that not only do the students learn about math, science and history, but they also learn about their own culture, the Gwich’in language, and how to respect the land that you all call home. They learn about the history of Old Crow and its many accomplishments, such as your ancestors’ survival on the land by trapping, fishing and hunting—their methods passed down through generations—or the three members of your community who were recipients of the Order of Canada.

This gives you a sense of place, of home, of roots.

I have often spoken of the importance of neighbours helping neighbours. I know that in Old Crow, that is a way of life. There is a connectivity in your community that is amazing. You help each other, you support each other and you care for each other.

The smart and caring nation we seek resides in each and every one of you. From students to Elders, you are helping to create the country of which we can all be proud.

I would like to thank you for your kind invitation to come to your community. I also thank you for sharing your concerns with us today. You are a model that many communities should emulate. I am also very pleased that you shared the words of the youth. It is heart warming to hear that the youth of Old Crow have realized the strength of their culture to face the challenges of today.

Thank you.