Statement from Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada in response to recent media reports following her visit to Quebec

September 26, 2024

When I was appointed as Canada's first Indigenous governor general, it was on the basis of my many years of experience as a bridge builder between different communities and nations, an advocate for education, a defender of Indigenous rights, and my longstanding commitment to advance reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. While fluent in Inuktitut and English, I was not able to speak French.

As​a Canadian and as a Quebecer, I understand very well the critical relationship among identity, culture and language. That is why speaking my mother tongue, Inuktitut, has been an integral part of who I am. That is why I am so committed to the revitalization and preservation of all Indigenous languages. I understand the importance of French to French-speaking Canadians as a critical part of their cultures and identities. That is one of the reasons that, as I took on my role as governor general, I committed to learning French and continue to practice, improve and use all three languages.

I remain committed to what I said in my installation speech, I will strive to build bridges across the diverse backgrounds and cultures that reflect our great country's uniqueness and promise as I continue to shine a light on issues that matter to Canadians.

Mary Simon

Media information:
Rideau Hall Press Office
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