Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. (English not provided)

Mr. Speaker, today women play a vital role in the communities and on a day-to-day basis. They are the backbone of our nation. Mr. Speaker, they are the main reason why we exist here today in this Assembly. They have taught us the true value of life, the value of growing up, the value of literacy, the value of respect, the value of sharing, and the value of simply being there when you needed them.

Mr. Speaker, the traditional garments that we wear here in the Assembly from time to time symbolizes the hard work of our ancestors, the grandmothers, mothers. Without them, this precious work, these beautiful traditional garments wouldn't exist here today.

---Applause

Mr. Speaker, the teepee, the tent, means a safe, secure home. It represents a woman's womb. She comforts you, keeps you warm, protects you from danger outside. The lodge poles represent men. Look at how many it takes to support a woman in the right way. Those men come together at the high point and are joined to form an intricate circle, a circle that exists here today.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my mother, grandmothers, for raising me with their language and traditional values of Tlicho to become who I am today. I especially would like to thank my wife for simply being there and supporting me. Without her I would not be complete.

Mr. Speaker, I have four women in my life at home. I am proud to say I'm proud of them and grateful for today. Mahsi.

---Applause