Some high profile leaders, including the Prime Minister, have come together to celebrate Tikinagan Child and Family Services and its annual ‘Honouring Our Children Day’ Wednesday.
The Sioux Lookout based agency has released a four-minute video package to remind everyone how important and special children area.
Executive Director Thelma Morris says “This is done in the true spirit of our service model Mamow Obiki-ahwahsoowin, which means ‘everyone working together to raise our children.’ The messages are just one way we can celebrate what this day means to our children, families, communities, and staff.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated “Our country will celebrate with Tikinagan Child and Family Services on their annual ‘Honouring Our Children Day’. This year our world is looking a little different right now and making children feel special at a time like this takes a community effort.”
Nishnawbe Aski Nation Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler says “Since 2010 ‘Honouring Our Children Day’ is recognized throughout the summer and into the fall by the agency and each of the 30 First Nation communities.”
Sioux Lookout Mayor Doug Lawrance joined Kiiwetinoong MPP Sol Mamakwa to deliver the following message.
“This important day is just one way to remind children how awesome, amazing, super, incredible, smart, fun, strong, and special they are.”
The video also includes Sandy Lake First Nation Chief and Council, City of Thunder Bay Mayor Bill Mauro, Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies CEO Nicole Bonnie, Association of Native Child and Family Services Agencies of Ontario Elder in Residence Danette Restoule, Kenora MP Eric Melillo, Former Indigenous NHL’er Jason Simon and Tikinagan staff.
The video can be viewed below
