Day 6 - 156 -- Exciting and Eclectic Day

What a long but exciting day! Travel hiccups early in the day took last minute problem solving while in near panic mode. Arrived at airport earlier than I'd expected, which gave me time to review speeches, do e-mail and make some notes. Flight went smoothly. At hotel I met with a number of colleagues and two good friends. It was wonderful to have even a short time to visit. The evening held an event for first time conference attendees that was a happening place <smile>. I then headed to meet with a former colleague who is now a senator. She showed me around the new senate building and I sat in the gallery to watch the end of the day's session. The highlight was the first speech by a new senator from NWT. In her traditional Inuvialuk dress, she spoke of her family's history with government policy. She encouraged the group to keep Truth and Reconciliation in mind when debating any bill in the chamber. The other highlight was meeting the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations, a fellow Saskatchewanian. So, the day was filled with wonderful experiences -- so privileged.

I've chosen a song by a Dene singer-songwriter who grew up in Yellowknife, NWT. She notes that the song is about healing and the impact of colonization, and brings together cultural and popular music. Enjoy!

K'eintah Natse Ju -- Leela Gilday