I would like to acknowledge Ms. Mary Kendi of Aklavik, who turns 94 years old today.
---Applause
Mary is one of the last generations of her family who has lived, trapped, and hunted as a means of survival for herself and her children. Mary lost her husband early in their marriage and, as a result, cared for and nurtured her children and taught them the traditional values and skills of hunting, trapping, sewing, and the family love that she brought to her children.
She contributed to the community of Aklavik by securing and telling the story and history, and also with her traditional knowledge being passed on to
the new generation. As well, she was a major resource by way of knowledge for the people of Aklavik.
I would like to wish Mary Kendi a very happy birthday for today and thank her for all her wisdom, her grace, and the sharing of herself and her family, and, more importantly, the gift that she always had of sharing the knowledge she has with her people, her community, and her children. Mahsi cho, Mary.