Hon. Brian Francis: Honourable senators, I rise today on behalf of the Progressive Senate Group to pay tribute to the late Honourable Ione Christensen.

Her passing in September has inspired countless tributes already, particularly from fellow Yukoners who have witnessed first-hand the impacts of her life’s work. I thank our colleague Senator Duncan for her own words in honour of Senator Christensen’s vast contributions to their territory.

When she was first introduced in this chamber, the Honourable Alasdair Graham had this to say:

As we reflect upon the appointment of Senator Christensen to this chamber, we are reminded that the North is our great challenge and our great adventure as Canadians. The Yukon is truly a land of mystery and a land of magic. Ione brings with her an understanding of the mystery, which is unparalleled, and an intuitive sense of the magic which few could rival.

It is clear that Senator Christensen never lost that connection to her land. In fact, I have heard that she used to provide a bit of Yukon magic to some of her fellow senators. Apparently, she would arrange to bring their red Senate lapel pins back home with her, and when she returned to Ottawa with the pins, they would be newly embellished with some Yukon gold. What a fitting way to remind her colleagues to value the contributions of her territory.

As we have heard, Senator Christensen truly embodied the term “trailblazer.” She was responsible for a number of important firsts, opening doors and breaking barriers for generations of women, making a name for herself both within the Yukon and throughout our entire country.

She even made a name for herself internationally. Those who visit the international Sourdough Library — either in Belgium or virtually online — will learn that Senator Christensen donated the sourdough starter that had been in her family since at least 1898, travelling with her great-grandfather from New Brunswick to the Klondike Goldfields. She famously made Sunday morning Yukon-style waffles with it. I have no doubt that her own legacy will also endure, as evidenced by the words we have heard today.

On behalf of the Progressive Senate Group, I offer my sincere condolences to the family and friends of the late Honourable Ione Christensen. Wela’lin. Thank you.