Annie Aningmiuq

It's their future.

Mr. Prime Minister, Madame Premier, Ministers, Distinguished Guests, and Fellow Students. On behalf of the youth of Nunavut, I am honoured to be here today.

Today, the Nunavut Agreement opens doors for us; opportunities will arise for Inuit; we can stand on our own foundation; we can grow and become united.

We are here today to honour the people who have worked hard to come to this agreement; that day has arrived. We are aware that we still have a lot to accomplish. Not only will the Tunngavik live up to its responsibilities; you and I will have to support this accomplishment. It is a great feeling to be here for this historical event, and to have our Prime Minister here to sign the agreement.

It is imperative that we, today's youth, work hard to be prepared for the future...a future that is exciting, challenging, and frightening at the same time. In order to prepare ourselves for better lives, to know who we are, and to be capable of future challenges, the first step is our education. We have to have knowledge and understanding of all types of issues—and about the Land Claims Agreement—so we can contribute to Nunavut using our full potential. We must look at ourselves, our needs, and realize the importance of schooling. We must assert ourselves and look at the opportunities around us, so that in our time, we will be the decision-makers of Nunavut Government. With our help the Nunavut Government will be reflective of all Nunavut residents.

The Nunavut Government will not rise up and operate immediately. It will only develop with our efforts, with you and I giving it all we've got. I encourage my peers, the youth, to continue with their education and to be proud of what they are accomplishing.

Parents, you, too, have a responsibility tO support your children by encouraging them with their education. Teach them who they are, and they will understand more of their duties, and their objectives in life will be easier to reach in their future.

For people who work on the land claims, you too have a responsibility to inform and support Inuit.

Finally, to the Honourable Mr. Prime Minister, and ministers, on behalf of all youth in Nunavut, it is my pleasure to express my greatest gratitude for allowing this special occasion to take place, especially within Nunavut. Your support and interest in doing this will not be forgotten. Your continuing support will make a difference for us; we will count on it.

It' s an exciting challenge for all of us, so let' s work together to reach our goals.