Hon. Judy A. White: Honourable senators, I rise today to speak to you about an amazing initiative of the Mi’kmaw Circle of Hope Society in Nova Scotia.

Heidi Marshall, a Mi’kmaw lawyer, created an organization to fill a void that she felt existed with respect to the Mi’kmaw experience. The goal was to create programming to support community and its culture.

During sitting break, I was fortunate to attend the second annual Wearing Our Identity fashion show. The event is a celebration of Indigenous women and resilience. The show featured a variety of local Indigenous artists, from designers to painters, singers and dancers. The artistry highlighted our identities and granted a space to share this with other community members. These initiatives are at the core of what Circle of Hope is motivated by: inspiring others by sharing our stories.

As women who pass through different communities, we must proudly wear our Mi’kmaw identity for all to see. This is imperative in taking the space we deserve in institutions and among groups that have not always been open to us.

As the first Indigenous senator from Newfoundland and Labrador, I practise this every day in Ottawa, as well as in this chamber. I’m proud to bring my Mi’kmaw identity to the Senate and strive to make our artists and community members known.

One occasion I’ll highlight is that in November I had the privilege to feature my moccasins on social media here in the Senate Chamber during a worldwide event known as Rock Your Mocs. Featuring these artisans and the story of the moccasins I was wearing was a fantastic way to bring my identity into the chamber and support our work as parliamentarians.

It’s fabulous to see Mi’kmaw women standing up in our communities and demonstrating leadership that will be passed down for generations to come.

I want to take this moment to thank the organizers of Wearing Our Identity and congratulate the organization for all its hard work. I’m inspired by your commitment to your community and thank you for your dedication to creating a community for Mi’kmaw individuals.

Thank you, wela’lin.