Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak hosted National Indigenous Peoples Day in Thompson last weekend celebrating thousands of years of local culture with elders, chiefs, band councillors, dignitaries and northerners. Thanks to MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee and Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Grand Chief Arlen Dumas, their organizations and others like them. Manitoba’s Indigenous culture is being preserved and promoted for everyone to celebrate and be proud of. This province can only succeed if Indigenous people can learn their history, live their culture, express themselves freely and are given the same opportunities to reach their potential as everyone else.
Speaking of northern traditions, congratulations to Josh Forest for capturing the King Miner title for a third year in a row during Nickels Days in Thompson last week. With equipment and consumables supplied by Vale, and manpower for the National King Miner contest supplied by the United Steelworkers Local 6166, this competition has grown into the signature event of Nickel Days, attracting participants from across the north and around the province aspiring to be “King”. Thanks to USW 6166 President Warren Luky, executive, members, sponsors and volunteers who put in untold hours, and to all 20 competitors for ensuring this northern tradition continues.
Congratulations also go to this season’s Northern Manitoba graduaes. You are a source of pride to your family members and friends, and an inspiration to countless others witnessing your accomplishments. Thank-you for letting me share in the joy and celebrations again this year, as we wish you all the best of success in your next adventure.
Additionally, I’m pleased to announce our government has recently committed to supporting the Thompson Public Library with $122,763 for the 2019/20 fiscal year to develop services and programs that help provide residents with the resources they need to succeed.
