July 1st is a special day for Canada. From the coastlines to far inland, Canadians come together to celebrate the day Canada was founded. While as a nation state we are still young, we have a long, rich history that can be traced back thousands of years to our Indigenous ancestors.
The celebrations may look different for everyone. Some may be attending a parade, decked out in white and red, proudly waving the Maple Leaf flag. For others, it may be a day of quiet relaxation, enjoying some time with family and friends. For many NunatuKavut Inuit, it is the opening of our seasonal communal salmon fishery and it will be a day of preparation and anticipation. It is a time of exercising our Indigenous rights and carrying on a centuries-long tradition of our people.
The NunatuKavut Community Council (NCC) and our people have much to celebrate. We are reclaiming our Inuttitut language, our drum, protecting our husky dog teams, lifting up our own stories and working to ensure that modern education systems reflect our history and culture. NCC is working hard to strengthen our communities and enhance the wellbeing of our people in ways that are sustainable and meaningful. I am immensely proud of our people, our families and our communities. They demonstrate so much respect and pride in our culture and our rich heritage today and every day.
Today is also Memorial Day in Newfoundland and Labrador. Every year on this day we take time to quietly reflect and remember those who so valiantly fought at the Battle of the Somme during World War 1, many of whom gave their lives to protect the freedoms that we have. But this Canada Day, this Memorial Day, is one which holds a special significance, as it is the day that an Unknown First World War Soldier from this Province is finally laid to rest in his homeland, over 100 years after the battle was fought and won.
NCC was honoured and humbled by the invitation to stand with other Indigenous groups at the centennial of the National War Memorial in St. John’s for the reinternment ceremony. I thank Richard Michelin, our Special Elder Advisor to the Governing Council, for attending to represent NCC and our people. Many NunatuKavut Inuit have served our nation over the years and know well the sacrifices made by these brave men and women. To be part of such a historic event is truly a privilege.
These past few years have been especially challenging for NunatuKavut Inuit and indeed many Canadians. Yet, today, as we remember our past and celebrate our achievements, the strength and fortitude of Canadians as a people shines bright, showcasing just how proud and committed we are to bettering this place we call home. This is why I am so hopeful for the future.
On behalf of NunatuKavut Community Council, I wish each of you a safe and enjoyable Canada Day.
nakummek
President Todd Russell