Kerry McCluskey
Northern News Services

IQALUIT (Apr 05/99) - Without question, the residents of Nunavut will always carry memories of the time their territory became official close to their hearts.

From Tagak Curley's dedication of the Nunavut Legislature to the generations of Inuit who worked to achieve the dream of Nunavut, to the extravagant evening of entertainment at the gala performance, Nunavummiut have a treasure chest of moments to keep their feelings of accomplishment alive.

The unveiling of the mace and the raising of Nunavut's flag, as well as the presentation of the coat-of-arms, postage stamp and coin, will all go down in history as some of the many firsts as the new territory was launched.

It was also a week of memorable speeches -- many of which brought both the speakers and the audience to tears. Both commissioner Helen Maksagak and Premier Paul Okalik had to struggle with their words as they fought the emotions so intricately wrapped up in the great day.

The festivities also brought many new organizations into power and saw several notable agencies dissolve after paving the way for the new Government of Nunavut.

And what better way to actually ring in the new territory than to celebrate with a colourful and explosive fireworks tribute that began as the clock struck midnight.

Prime Minister Jean Chretien perhaps summed it up best at the conclusion of his speech as he wished Nunavut well and spoke of his long involvement and love for the North.

"Ladies and gentlemen, Nunavut is yours. You now have the tools to make your future. Roll up your sleeves, dig in, and make Nunavut all that it can be. For you and for your children. Vive le Nunavut! Vive le Canada!"