Official Visit to Nunavut - Day 1
Their Excellencies met with the Honourable Edna Elias, Commissioner of Nunavut.
Mon, 08/15/2011 - 12:00 Sgt Serge Gouin, Rideau Hall GG2011-0428-003
Mr. Johnny Issaluk (yellow t-shirt), with the help of other guests at the community feast, demonstrated a few traditional games played by the Inuit to maintain good physical fitness.
Mon, 08/15/2011 - 12:00 Sgt Serge Gouin, Rideau Hall GG2011-0432-022
The Governor General watches a demonstration of the lighting of the qulliq, a type of oil lamp used by the Inuit consisting of a crescent-shaped, carved soapstone cup, which is filled with oil from sea mammals. Cotton grass or moss is used as a wick. The Inuit use the qulliq for illuminating and heating their tents and igloos, melting snow, cooking, and drying their clothes. It is also used for ceremonial purposes.
Mon, 08/15/2011 - 12:00 Sgt Serge Gouin, Rideau Hall GG2011-0432-012
During the community feast, His Excellency honoured Mr. Zacharias Kunuk, Inuk film producer and director, with the Governor General’s Northern Medal. The Northern Medal is awarded annually to citizens who have contributed to the evolution and constant reaffirmation of Canada’s North as part of our national identity.
Mon, 08/15/2011 - 12:00 Sgt Serge Gouin, Rideau Hall GG2011-0432-009
Their Excellencies took part in a community feast. During the feast, they met with the people of Iqaluit and experienced Inuit culture, food and traditions. The Governor General is seen in this photo shaking hands with Thor Puya Chemko, a little boy from Iqaluit, Nunavut.
Mon, 08/15/2011 - 12:00 Sgt Serge Gouin, Rideau Hall GG2011-0432-007
"It is my hope as governor general to build understanding and co-operation among all Canadians, and your insights and participation as northerners are essential. In particular, I want to invite you to share your ideas about how we can better support our families and our children; how we can foster learning and innovation; and how we can encourage a spirit of volunteerism and philanthropy—the keys, in my mind, to a smarter, more caring Canada," said the Governor General during the community feast.
Mon, 08/15/2011 - 12:00 Sgt Serge Gouin, Rideau Hall GG2011-0432-002
Their Excellencies then met with Her Worship Madeleine Redfern, Mayor of Iqaluit, and Mr. David Ell, Deputy Mayor of Iqaluit. The meeting allowed them to discuss the city’s initiatives, as well as issues faced by the residents of Iqaluit.
Mon, 08/15/2011 - 12:00 Sgt Serge Gouin, Rideau Hall GG2011-0430-008
Their Excellencies also met with Ms. Cathy Towtongie, President of Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI) where they learned about the role of NTI in preserving the rights of the Inuit. Ms. Towtongie also showed Their Excellencies work done by local artists.
Mon, 08/15/2011 - 12:00 Sgt Serge Gouin, Rideau Hall GG2011-0429-003
The Governor General conducted an inspection of the quarter guard during the official welcoming ceremony.
Mon, 08/15/2011 - 12:00 Sgt Serge Gouin, Rideau Hall GG2011-0427-011
Upon arrival in Iqaluit, Their Excellencies were greeted by Major Josée Allard, Joint Task Force North Iqaluit Detachment Commander (left).
Mon, 08/15/2011 - 12:00 Sgt Serge Gouin, Rideau Hall GG2011-0427-004
The official program for Nunavut began at Rideau Hall, in Ottawa, with a courtesy call by the Premier of Nunavut.
Mon, 08/15/2011 - 12:00 Sgt Serge Gouin, Rideau Hall GG2011-0426-006
As part of the official visit to Nunavut, Their Excellencies the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, and Mrs. Sharon Johnston met with the Honourable Eva Aariak, Premier of Nunavut.
Mon, 08/15/2011 - 12:00 Sgt Serge Gouin, Rideau Hall GG2011-0426-004