Governor General speaks to newcomers at Regina Open Door Society

Gov. Gen. Mary Simon visited the Regina Open Door Society on Tuesday as part of her first official trip to Saskatchewan.

First, she met with Geanna Dunbar and Bruno Hernani, the lead artists who painted the mural on the building’s exterior wall.

Simon then dropped in on a group of newcomers in their ESL class.

“If you can live your life and show respect to other cultures, it means you’re inclusive, and learning another language, you’re doing your part to become part of Canada,” Simon said.

Simon, who is bilingual in English and Inuktitut, shared her experience with learning French.

“At first, it’s hard in your head because you are always translating, but after a while, you stop translating and it’s a lot easier,” she said. “I am assuring you that it will come, even though it’s a long process.”

Learners were encouraged to share their stories and ask questions. One learner asked Simon what she hoped for in the future.

“I have a lot of hope and dreams for Canada, because I think we are building a much more inclusive society more than ever. Canada has always welcomed new Canadians or newcomers to our country,” Simon said.

“I think (that) now with this work that I am doing on reconciliation, which is to bring Canadians together more and more and live side by side with respect.”

It was the second day of the Governor General’s busy three-day trip to Saskatchewan. Her visit ends in Saskatoon on Wednesday.