Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Thank you, colleagues. Thank you to the mover and seconder. Mr. Speaker, I've struggled with this motion. I've had some long conversations with my colleagues. I was at one point supportive, at point not supportive, at one point thinking I would abstain to the motion, Mr. Speaker. And, you know, and I'll kind of explain why and where I am now on this motion, Mr. Speaker.

As leaders, as Members of the Legislative Assembly, and as representatives of the people in our communities, it is incumbent upon us, Mr. Speaker, to ensure the actions that we take are principled and bring about resolution of conflict. As MLAs, we are responsible for the well-being of our residents, including the families and children who call the NWT home. The conflict in Gaza has brought horrors upon families, children, and countless innocent people. This violence cannot continue. In Canada, we have our own histories of violence and oppression. We have committed to reconciliation as a government, and it is in that spirit I state firmly that violence, especially violence against children and families, is entirely unacceptable, Mr. Speaker.

The longstanding nature of the Gaza conflict is, in part, the consequence of polarized and inflamed viewpoints on all sides. As leaders, we must seek to reduce polarization. We must take actions that bring people together rather than divide them further. Reconciliation, Mr. Speaker, is not just a word. Mr. Speaker, I believe the language in this motion, in my mind, does not accomplish this purpose. The language tries to simplify an incredibly complicated global reality. The language as crafted cannot be seen as a real way to bring about peace but may instead further inflame violence. Rather than reduce polarization, this motion may exacerbate it.

I understand that we all have different experiences and different views, and I respect the MLAs in this Legislative Assembly. Having said that, Mr. Speaker, I cannot vote against a motion of peace. I also choose, Mr. Speaker, not to abstain even though I do feel that the motion, the way it's worded, can in some ways be counterproductive to what we're trying to accomplish here, I will support the mover and the seconder of this motion. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.