The Honourable Ann Meekitjuk Hanson
Commissioner of Nunavut
My First Year as Commissioner
11 April 2006
Iqaluit, Nunavut
April 11th, 2006 is my first anniversary since I was appointed as Commissioner of Nunavut.
I find the year went very fast, with a flurry of different activities, some quite memorable. The most memorable ones were when people received their much deserved recognition for bravery, volunteerism or special knowledge awards.
The proud and happy faces of recipients, family members and the whole community are unforgettable. When the whole community celebrates their peers, the recipients feel important and needed.
The RCMP members in full uniform, the Air Cadets/Junior Cadets, the Rangers in uniforms add colour and pageantry. This is big in smaller communities and very much appreciated.
The Commissioner's House has received many visitors from other countries such as Japan, Australia, England, France, Norway, Austria, the United States and other parts of Nunavut and Canada, and Iqalungmiut.
My assistant Marie Fortier and I have provided information about Nunavut when people write to the Commissioner's government website. I also write support letters where I think it is needed, especially for people in the arts such as writers and filmmakers who produce culturally relevant films and videos.
Several times, we have had to direct people to appropriate government departments, especially on social issue concerns. This service seems very much appreciated and we have found people to very grateful.
One of the activities I really enjoy is speaking to the students and to groups of people who invite me as their guest. People have been so kind in welcoming me and have made me feel very needed.
I don't dwell on the past when I speak. People know me well enough that the past is past and we have more important things to do.
Yes, the year went very fast. We've had numerous major events and we know it takes a lot of work to organize the simplest event. The Dept. of External and Intergovernmental Affairs and other Government of Nunavut departments have cooperated enormously when we need their help. For this, I am very grateful.
Outside agencies such as the Hamlets, the RCMP, the Royal Canadian Legion, the airlines, the military, private businesses and community groups have gone over and above their means to help us out.
It is good to have everyone's cooperation and support. Thank you for all your support during my first year in 2005/2006.