June 25, 2025

Check against delivery

I’m here to deliver my congratulations to you.

I’ll begin by acknowledging that we are gathered on the traditional, unceded territory of the

Algonquin Anishinaabeg Nation.

The peoples of that Nation have lived on this territory for millennia.

By acknowledging their enduring connection to this land, we honour their stories and continue to foster reconciliation through understanding.

I regret that I was not able to visit your school two days ago as planned.

I would have enjoyed speaking with some of your classmates at The Lodge.

In the Algonquin language, The Lodge is “Manido Onji”. It means place of spirit.

The Lodge is an important space for Indigenous students.

A learning and meeting place during the school day.

And a safe, welcoming place to fully express their Indigenous identity.

In one student’s words, The Lodge is a place for First Nations, Métis and Inuit students “to be who they are, as they are.”

We all seek out spaces to be our authentic selves.

And hopefully, high school has given you the space, the knowledge, and the challenges, to help you construct your best self.

When did you learn the most?

Think back.

Did you ever have a moment when you thought, ‘Can I even do this? Am I going to make it?’

I want you to know: moments of doubt are good. Feeling you’re not up to the task is normal.

Getting past that uncomfortable feeling, that difficult thing, encouraging yourself, and finding success because you were your own best ally, is exceptional.

Facing down adversity shows Ajuinnata. It’s an old Inuit word. It means you have perseverance in your spirit. With Ajuinnata, you can achieve your highest goals.

To you, Graduating Class of 2025, keep the happiness of your accomplishment with you.

Go get more education – the best you can possibly get.

Put great energy into it.

It will catapult you into new realms.