Hon. Yonah Martin (Deputy Leader of the Opposition): Honourable senators, I rise today to give a warm welcome to the participants of this year’s Voices of Youth Indigenous Leaders. These eight inspiring youth are here to share their perspectives on this year’s theme: Indigenous education.

Honourable colleagues, this issue is very close to my heart. As a former teacher, I know that quality education can uplift and empower our youth to succeed. I have seen first-hand the power of education in a classroom setting, but I have so much to learn from these youth who are here today. These young Indigenous leaders are here to share their experiences on education with us, and it is in our very best interest to listen.

It is now my pleasure to introduce two of these wonderful Voices of Youth Indigenous Leaders participants.

Dylan Adam is Métis from Princeton, which is in my home province of British Columbia. For the past five years, he has served as the youth representative for the Vermillion Forks Métis Association. In this role, he has helped organize community events and worked to promote Métis culture. Mr. Adam is currently a full-time student at the University of British Columbia — Okanagan where he is pursuing a degree in political science.

I would also like to welcome Helaina Moses. She is a 27‑year‑old member of the Na-Cho Nyäk Dun First Nation in Mayo, Yukon. She grew up learning how to hunt, trap and fish with her grandfather. He learned those skills at a young age because he did not have access to grocery stores or highways. Ms. Moses credits both her grandparents for teaching her to become an environmentalist. She also ran for her local band council because she believes her government needs young, strong voices advocating for change.

Honourable senators, please join me in welcoming this incredible group.

Hon. Dennis Glen Patterson: Honourable senators, it is my pleasure to stand today to welcome the participants of this year’s Voices of Youth Indigenous Leaders. These eight young people are joining us as we celebrate National Indigenous History Month in June. It’s a time to honour the resilience, contributions and storied history of the Inuit, First Nations and Métis peoples across the country. It is also a time to reflect on the legacy of colonialism and the many ways in which our country has failed Indigenous peoples.

Honourable colleagues, the youth here today remind us that we can do better. They are working hard to support their respective communities, and they are true role models for Indigenous youth across the country.

Their presentations to our committee this morning were heartwarming and inspirational. It is with my deepest respect, awe and gratitude that I stand before you to introduce two of these young leaders.

I would first like to welcome Dina Koonoo who has come all the way from Pond Inlet to be with us. She is the manager of the Early Years program for Pirurvik Preschool in Pond Inlet, Nunavut. As part of her role, Ms. Koonoo facilitates the support of mothers, fathers, infants, toddlers, preschoolers and families. She especially loves working with women and children in her community.

I would also like to introduce Katherine Merrell-Anderson who is from Elizabeth Métis Settlement. She’s joining us from Treaty 6 territory, also known as Edmonton, Alberta. She is a social worker in a school district where she works to ensure that her students have a safe environment to connect to their culture.

Honourable senators, please join me in welcoming Ms. Koonoo, Ms. Merrell-Anderson and the rest of this amazing group of young Indigenous leaders.