Mr. Speaker, I am very honoured today, and I want to congratulate the recipients of the Minister's Culture and Heritage Circle Awards. These awards are given to individuals and groups who contribute to the preservation and promotion of arts, cultures, and heritage in the Northwest Territories.
Taken from the background of this award, I can see that each of the recipients, Mr. Speaker, have been playing a key role in promoting, protecting, preserving, and celebrating our unique culture, heritage, and ways of life.
Mr. Speaker, the elder award was presented to Joanne Tetlichi of Fort McPherson. I want to congratulate her and her efforts in being able to relate to the youth and to make her community, her home, and her camp a better and safe place for everyone. Her role in keeping her culture strong has impacted the youth in a positive way, and they have a role model to look up to.
Mr. Speaker, the community award went to the Designated Gwich'in Organization of Fort McPherson. Ms. Anita Koe has accepted the award on behalf of her colleagues. The DGO is a prime example of promoting the culture; they take pride in being traditional, using their elders to teach and promote the culture, and they also get the community involved in activities that are happening at their office.
Congratulations to Joanne and Anita, and to the rest of the award recipients. Good luck in the future projects, and continue to do the great job that you do. Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker.