Derek Neary
Northern News Services
Fort Simpson (Jun 08/01) - Whatever road Thomas Simpson school's graduates might travel, they know they will always be welcome back in Fort Simpson.
Chief Stan Sanguez, of Jean Marie River told the graduates that they can help fulfil self-government and self-determination.
"We'll need you as engineers and professional people that we don't have here," he said. "You'll take the place of doctors, lawyers and nurses."
Michael Nadli, grand chief of the Deh Cho First Nations, noted that the theme of this year's graduation, "Growing from strong roots," carries deep meaning.
"I think it's important to realize who we are," he said, adding that people have survived the elements while living on this land through the centuries, but have adapted to drastic change and modern conveniences, too.
"Their determination has (allowed) us to survive to be who we are today," said Nadli. "I get hope from that."
He also urged the students to preserve local language and culture.
"What we see on the surface is only as strong as the roots," he said.
"You always have to remember that your home is where your roots are, and your roots are here."
Ethel Blondin-Andrew, MP for the Western Arctic, noted that there were nay-sayers when smaller communities were granted control of secondary education.
"The communities can produce success and run their own affairs," she told the graduates and their relatives.
Blondin-Andrew also shared a number of personal stories about family members who taught her so much about life and her culture. She suggested that the students have also benefited from insight from their relatives, and should use those memories as reminders of tolerance.
"Those are the things that will allow you to be tolerant, loving and understanding to other people, other nationalities," she said.
Finally, she encouraged the graduates to pursue their ambitions.
"Don't live in fear. Too many people are paralysed by fear and give up on their dreams," she said, noting that education does not end in school.
"Keep on learning. Just because you've gotten this far doesn't give you a reason to stop."
Valedictorian Cathy Blon-din expressed gratitude to the parents and teachers.
"As much as you think we aren't grateful, we are," she said.
"Without you leading us we could never have made it this far."
