Remarks by
The Honourable Anita Neville, P.C., O.M.
Lieutenant Governor of Manitoba
RECEPTION FOR THE MANITOBA ASSOCIATION OF FORMER MLAS
Government House
Thursday, May 25, 2023, 5:00 p.m.
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Fellow Manitobans, it is a pleasure to share this afternoon with you in beautiful Government House.
It is my privilege to acknowledge that we are gathered here on Treaty One land and in the heartland of the Red River Metis. I acknowledge that the province we love, and that I represent as Lieutenant Governor, is the present-day home of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Dakota, Dene, Inuit and Red River Metis peoples.
We acknowledge northern Manitoba includes lands that were, and are, the ancestral lands of the Inuit.
Together, we strive to advance understanding, healing and reconciliation and work as partners for a better future.
It is an honour to welcome to this historic residence a group of men and women who have dedicated their considerable talents and experience to the challenges of leadership.
Each of you knows what it means to represent your fellow Manitobans. You know the complex balancing acts. You know the competing demands and mixed messages so often expressed by voters. You know the pressure, you know the moments of tedium, and you know the occasional feeling of profound satisfaction in accomplishing a difficult and important task.
And you know, as well, that a healthy democracy requires the interest and involvement of its people.
At a time when well-funded conspiracy theories, emboldened domestic extremists and foreign cyber warriors seek to erode belief in democracy, it is more important than ever to speak out for free and fair elections and open government.
It’s more important than ever to speak out for the value of public service in all its forms, including serving in elected office.
And so I’m especially delighted that this association has taken on as its mission: “Promoting citizen engagement in the democratic process.”
I know that many of you have been active in volunteer public service since your time as MLA’s and MP’s – providing leadership and advice to not-for-profit organizations, and others, that make our province a better place.
We all know there is nothing more vital to our values and quality of life than strengthening our democracy.
For all you do and for all you have done for democracy, for good governance and for community… thank you, Merci, Meegwich.