Alana Ross
Saskatchewan is in mourning. The last few weeks have been a very difficult time for our province as we continue to cope with two heart breaking events.
Our thoughts are with the residents, first responders, families and friends of the James Smith Cree Nation and community of Weldon. The violence and loss you have experienced sent a wave of emotions across our land. We cannot begin to fully express our condolences, but please know that we are with you.
The pain is very real, and the questions are limitless. We are proud of the strength that you have shown and the ability to come together as a community. We will support those recovering and remember the victims, our neighbours, brothers, sisters, parents and grandparents taken too soon.
We are also mourning the loss of Her late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth the Second. Just days before, Her Majesty sent condolences to the province, Weldon and the James Smith Cree Nation, sending thoughts and prayers to those recovering and those grieving such a horrific loss. Queen Elizabeth closed by saying she mourns with all Canadians during this tragic time.
The news of Her Majesty’s passing has evoked strong memories of past visits to Saskatchewan. In 2005, Saskatchewan celebrated our centennial and was excited to host Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip. During that appearance, Her Majesty spoke to revellers and reminded our province of our duty to each other.
“Such service to others reflects so much of what your grandparents and great grandparents dreamed of when Saskatchewan first became a province of the Dominion of Canada in 1905. These men and women did not simply hope for a brighter future; they devoted every day to achieving their vision, not so much for themselves but for their children, and their grandchildren — for everyone.
During the past four days, Prince Philip and I have caught glimpses of your ancestors’ dreams that have been brought to life, not by accident but through determination, perseverance and hard work. Whether in rural settings, towns or cities, we have met citizens of Saskatchewan, of many diverse backgrounds, who are united in their desire to continue to build a society that will remain the envy of the world.
We have constantly been reminded that here in Western Canada, peoples from around the world have come together to add their own richness to the vast, colourful tapestry that is only matched by the size and beauty of the country itself. The spirit of nation building here in Saskatchewan and Canada truly falls on fertile soil. With this spirit the promise of the future is boundless.”
The strength Her Majesty spoke about with conviction, is what will guide our province through the pain of losing ten community members. Healing will take time but as we mourn together as a province, we will draw on our collective strength. Saskatchewan was built by community spirit, neighbour helping neighbour, friends and family supporting one another through the good times and bad.
Multis e gentibus vires – From Many Peoples Strength.
If you require assistance with provincial government programs or services, I encourage you to contact my constituency office at #7, 598 15th Street East; we can be reached at 306-763-7677 or email at: panorthcote.mla@sasktel.net.
