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Mary Jeannie May Simon[a] (born August 21, 1947) is a Canadian civil servant, diplomat, and former broadcaster who has been serving as the 30th governor general of Canada since July 26, 2021. She is Inuk on her mother's side, making her the first Indigenous person to hold the office.[b]

Key Information

Simon was born in Fort Severight (now Kangiqsualujjuaq), Quebec. She briefly worked as a producer and announcer for the CBC Northern Service in the 1970s before entering public service, serving on the board of the Northern Quebec Inuit Association and playing a key role in the Charlottetown Accord negotiations.[citation needed] She was Canada's first ambassador for circumpolar affairs from 1994 to 2004, as well as a lead negotiator for the creation of the Arctic Council.[5] She also served as the Canadian ambassador to Denmark from 1999 to 2002.

On July 6, 2021, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that Queen Elizabeth II had approved Simon's appointment as governor general.[6] Her appointment was criticized, as she is not fluent in French, an official language of Canada.[7]

Early life and education

[edit]

Simon was born Mary Jeannie May[4] on August 21, 1947,[8] in Fort Severight (now Kangiqsualujjuaq), Quebec,[9] to Bob May, who was from Manitoba and of English descent,[10] and to her mother, Nancy, an Inuk.[11][12] Her father had relocated to the north in his youth[13] and became manager of the local Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) store during the early 1950s.[12][14] He said that he was the first white employee to marry an Inuk, which the HBC banned at the time.[15] Mary Simon's Inuk name is Ningiukudluk, which means "bossy little old lady".[4][16]

Simon was raised in a traditional Inuit lifestyle, including hunting, fishing, sewing Inuit clothing, and travelling by dog sled.[4][17] She credits her mother and maternal grandmother Jeannie Angnatuk for passing on Inuit oral history to her.[4][11]

Simon attended federal day school in Fort Chimo (now Kuujjuaq),[18] then Fort Carson High School in Colorado, and completed her high school via correspondence in Fort Chimo.[citation needed]

Career

[edit]

Early career

[edit]

Simon taught Inuktitut at McGill University.[19] From 1969 to 1973, she worked as a producer and announcer for the CBC Northern Service.[20]

Simon began her career as a public servant by being elected secretary of the board of directors of the Northern Quebec Inuit Association. In 1978, she was elected as vice-president, and later president, of the Makivik Corporation. She held the position until 1985.[21]

During this period she also became involved with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Canada's national Inuit organization.[22] Simon was one of the senior Inuit negotiators during the patriation of the Canadian Constitution, the First Ministers' conferences that took place from 1982 to 1992, as well as the 1992 Charlottetown Accord discussions.

She served as a member of the Nunavut Implementation Commission and as co-director (policy) and secretary to the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples.[22]

Diplomatic career

[edit]

She took on a variety of roles for the Inuit Circumpolar Conference (ICC). First she served as an Executive Council member from 1980 to 1983, then as president from 1986 to 1992, and then as Special Envoy from 1992 to 1994.[22] In 1986, as president of the ICC, Simon led a delegation of Canadian, Alaskan, and Greenland Inuit to Moscow and then to Chukotka to meet with Russian officials as well as the Inuit of the far east of Russia. In 1987 the ICC was successful in efforts that resulted in the Russian government allowing Russian Inuit to attend the 1989 ICC General Assembly held in Alaska.[citation needed]

Ambassadorship

[edit]

In 1994, Simon was appointed by Prime Minister Jean Chrétien to be Canadian Ambassador for Circumpolar Affairs,[23] a newly created position she held until early 2004.[24] Acting on instructions from the Government of Canada, she took the lead role in negotiating the creation of an eight-country council known today as the Arctic Council. The 1996 Ottawa Declaration formally established it to include the active participation of indigenous peoples in the circumpolar world. Under her leadership, and later as Canada's Senior Arctic Official, she and its indigenous permanent participants worked closely with those of its seven other states.[citation needed]

During this time, Simon was also the Canadian Ambassador to Denmark[25] (1999–2002),[26] a member of the Joint Public Advisory Committee of the Commission on Environmental Cooperation (1997–2000) and its chairwoman from 1997 to 1998.

Simon was appointed Councillor for the International Council for Conflict Resolution at the Carter Center in 2001.[citation needed]

Post-diplomatic work

[edit]

From November 2004 to February 2005, she assisted with the facilitation and write-up of reports on the "Sectoral Follow-up Sessions" announced by Prime Minister Paul Martin following the April 19, 2004 Canada-Aboriginal Peoples Roundtable on Strengthening the Relationship on Health, Life Long learning, Housing, Economic Opportunities, Negotiations, and Accountability for Results.[citation needed] From June 2004 to June 2007, Simon was a board member at the International Institute for Sustainable Development.[27][28]

From 2004 to 2005, Simon was special advisor to the Labrador Inuit Association on the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement.[29][30] She was elected president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami on July 7, 2006.[31]

In 2010, Simon was reported to be under consideration for Governor General of Canada.[32] David Johnston was ultimately appointed.[33]

Governor General of Canada

[edit]

Nomination

[edit]
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announcing Mary Simon as the 30th governor general of Canada, 2021

The federal government began a search for a replacement for Governor General Julie Payette following her resignation in early 2021. Simon was reported as a leading contender for the post early on, given her Indigenous heritage and then-political consciousness on Indigenous reconciliation. On July 6, 2021, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that Queen Elizabeth II had approved Simon's appointment as the 30th Governor General of Canada.[34] She received a customary audience with the Queen on July 22, though held virtually (instead of in-person) due to the coronavirus pandemic. She was vested with special appointments as Chancellor of the Order of Canada, the Order of Military Merit, the Order of Merit of the Police Forces and the Order of St. John (within Canada). She also received the Canadian Forces' Decoration. She was formally installed at the Senate of Canada Building on July 26.[35]

Simon's appointment was somewhat unusual, in that although she speaks English and Inuktitut, she is not particularly proficient in French. This raised some complaints from Francophone Canadians for breaking the tradition of French-English bilingualism.[36][7]

Tenure

[edit]
Simon and Dame Cindy Kiro, Governor-General of New Zealand, host a bilateral between Canada and New Zealand during their Platinum Jubilee visit to the United Kingdom, June 2022.

Ajuinnata

[edit]

Simon considers the concept of ajuinnata as an important theme for her mandate as governor general.[37] Ajuinnata is an Inuktitut word that does not have a one-word translation, as it encompasses many things: a vow or a promise to never give up, or a commitment to action no matter how daunting the cause may be.[38] Simon said that the word was taught to her by her mother and grandmother, and is an important concept for Inuit.[39] According to Simon, the spirit of ajuinnata drove her to get involved in movements to improve the lives of Inuit in Canada.[40]

Germany visit

[edit]

Simon made her first trip abroad as Governor General on October 17, 2021, when she and her husband arrived in Berlin, Germany on a state visit.[41] The trip was Canada's first state visit to Germany in over 20 years.[42] During her visit, Simon met with President of Germany Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Chancellor of Germany Angela Merkel.[43] In an interview with The Globe and Mail, Simon said she discussed with Steinmeier, how in fulfilling the role of head of state, to express and atone for the darkest moments of their countries' history—the Holocaust and the Residential School System.[44] She also attended the Frankfurt Book Fair and a roundtable discussion on Arctic exploration at the Frankfurt Archaeological Museum.[43]

Queen's Platinum Jubilee

[edit]

On Accession Day, February 6, 2022, Simon paid tribute to the Queen in a message to mark her Platinum Jubilee. She said:[45]

Much has changed in the last seven decades. We extended the hand of friendship to nations around the world. We made advancements in medical research, most recently with vaccines. We established the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and took part in its work. We saw the first Canadian named governor general, then the first woman and now, the first Indigenous person.

Simon and her husband met the Queen for the first time on March 15, 2022, at Windsor Castle. The Queen hosted afternoon tea for the couple. It was the first time that the Canadian monarch met the first indigenous governor general in Canadian history. Simon later said in an interview that she and the Queen discussed various issues like the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine, Canada convoy protests, and how they both recovered from COVID-19. Simon said she told the Queen that Canada's history books should be rewritten to reflect the facts about the relationship between the Canadian Crown and Indigenous peoples of Canada.[46][47]

In May, Simon hosted Charles, Prince of Wales and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall on their Platinum Jubilee tour of Canada. During the tour, Simon invested Charles as an Extraordinary Commander of the Order of Military Merit at Rideau Hall.[48]

Simon with governors-general David Hurley of Australia and Dame Cindy Kiro of New Zealand, outside St Paul's Cathedral, London, June 3, 2022

Simon and her husband travelled to London from June 2 to 6, 2022, to take part in the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations in the United Kingdom. They attended the Service of Thanksgiving at St. Paul's Cathedral, the Platinum Party at the Palace, and the Platinum Jubilee Pageant, which included military personnel from the Canadian Armed Forces.[49]

Simon urged all Canadians to work together, to "truly honour the life, legacy and reign of Her Majesty The Queen", and said that, to her, that is worth celebrating.[50]

Papal visit

[edit]

On April 1, 2022, Simon released a statement following Pope Francis' apology to Indigenous delegation at the Vatican. Simon said she was grateful to the Pope for his words, and hailed it a "historic and emotional day for Indigenous peoples across Canada". She said that the apology is "one step on the road to reconciliation", and the Pope has "committed to visiting Canada to continue the reconciliation journey with Indigenous peoples on their own lands".[51]

Pope Francis visited Canada from July 24 to 29, 2022, with Simon taking part in several events and activities during the papal visit.[52] Following the papal apology in Maskwacis on July 25, Simon said, "Today was a day that moved us forward, giving Survivors words that may help them heal. Yet it is also a day that can raise complex emotions, especially as the Papal visit continues".[53]

Transition of the Crown

[edit]
Simon meeting King Charles III at Buckingham Palace, May 5, 2023
Simon during the 2025 royal tour of Canada

With Queen Elizabeth II's death on September 8, 2022, Simon became the first governor general to serve under two monarchs since Lord Tweedsmuir in 1936. Simon said, "Her Majesty's warm welcome when we spent time with her earlier this year was a profound moment in our lives and a memory we will cherish forever".[54] In a live statement to Canadians, Simon said, "Her Majesty cared about people, about our well-being. This was clear every time we spoke. She cared about Canada, and all the unique stories that make up our beautiful country".[55]

On September 10, Simon signed the proclamation of the accession of King Charles III at Rideau Hall following a formal meeting of the King's Privy Council for Canada.[56] In a statement, Simon said, "the Crown endures and thrives as a symbol of service, tradition and commitment. His Majesty The King ascends at an important time in history for Canada and the Commonwealth".[57]

Simon and her husband were part of the Canadian delegation to the Queen's state funeral in London on September 19.[58] On the occasion of the Queen's funeral, Simon said, "We were fortunate to have The Queen with us for so long. On behalf of all Canadians, I would like to thank our Queen, our monarch, one last time, for her love and her commitment to our country and our people".[59]

In May 2023, just days before the coronation of King Charles III, Simon organised an audience at Buckingham Palace between the King and three Indigenous leaders: Assembly of First Nations National Chief RoseAnne Archibald, President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami Natan Obed, and President of the Métis National Council Cassidy Caron.[60] Simon said that the King "understands the importance of walking the path of reconciliation with Canada and Indigenous peoples".[61]

Simon and her husband attended a reception hosted by the King on May 5, and the Coronation Service at Westminster Abbey on May 6. For the coronation, Simon wore a Canadian creation by a Nunavik born artist.[62] In a statement, Simon said:[63]

Seventy years have passed since the last Coronation, offering us an opportunity to reflect on all that has changed in our country, the Commonwealth and the world around us. And so much has changed. The evolution of technology, society and economics is happening at a quickening pace. And while the Crown has also evolved during this time, it continues to be an anchor for our robust and stable democracy and our diverse country.

On May 7, 2023, Simon attended the Coronation Concert at Windsor Castle.[64]

Expenses criticism

[edit]

In June 2022, Simon came under fire after a National Post story was published regarding exorbitant in-flight catering costs of over $93,000 for her eight-day trip to the Middle East.[65][66] She called the criticism "unfair" as she had no part in the logistics of her trips to discuss world peace but her office would try to "minimize the cost of future voyages".[67][68] Due to a growing number of abusive comments, in February 2023 the office of the Governor General closed commenting on social media posts.[69]

Personal life

[edit]

Simon is the second-oldest of eight children.[12] Her brother, Johnny May, is a locally renowned bush pilot.[18] In her youth, Simon attended an Anglican church with her family.[13] At age 40, she developed depression and burnout, but gradually overcame them.[15]

Simon married her first husband, Robert Otis, on March 27, 1967, in Kuujjuaq.[70] She later married George Simon,[13] and in 1994 she married her current husband, journalist and author Whit Fraser, a former head of the Canadian Polar Commission.[71][72] She has two sons and one daughter.[13] Simon speaks English and Inuktitut, and she has committed to learn French during her tenure as governor general.[73]

Honours

[edit]
Viceregal styles of
Mary Simon
(2021–present)
Reference style
  • Her Excellency the Right Honourable
  • Son Excellence la très honorable
Spoken style
  • Your Excellency
  • Votre Excellence

Ribbon bars of Mary Simon




Appointments and awards
Honour Date Citation
Order of Canada
  • Extraordinary Companion of the Order in 2021
  • Officer of the Order in 2005
  • Member of the Order in 1992
Order of Military Merit Extraordinary Commander of the Order in 2021
Order of Merit of the Police Forces Commander of the Order in 2021
The Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St. John of Jerusalem Dame of Justice and Prior of the Order in 2021
National Order of Quebec Officer of the Order in 1992[74]
Governor General's Northern Medal (Polar Medal) August 4, 2011[75]
125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada Medal 1992
Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal (Canadian Version) February 6, 2002
Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (Canadian Version) February 6, 2012
King Charles III Coronation Medal (Canadian Version) 2024
Canadian Forces' Decoration July 22, 2021
Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal (Alberta Version) 2022
Greenland Medal for Meritorious Service (Gold) July 24, 1992[76]
National Aboriginal Achievement Award 1996[77]
Gold Medal of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society 1998[78]
Symons Medal of the Confederation Centre of the Arts November 3, 2009[79]

Honorary degrees

[edit]
University Degree Date Ref.
McGill University Doctor of Laws June 5, 1992 [78][80]
Queen's University Doctor of Laws October 28, 1994 [81][82]
Trent University Doctor of Laws June 2, 2005 [83][84][85]
Memorial University Doctor of Laws May 2008 [86][87]
University of Guelph Doctor of Laws February 2009 [88][89]
Carleton University Doctor of Laws June 7, 2011 [90][91]
University of Alberta Doctor of Laws June 12, 2012 [92][93]
Mount Saint Vincent University Doctor of Humane Letters 2013 [94][95]
University of British Columbia Doctor of Laws May 26, 2016 [96][97]
University of Victoria Doctor of Laws June 2016 [98][99]
University of Calgary Doctor of Laws June 7, 2017 [100][101]
University of Western Ontario Doctor of Laws June 19, 2017 [102][103]
University of Manitoba Doctor of Laws June 20, 2023 [104][105]
Royal Military College Doctor of Laws May 16, 2024 [106][107]

Honorary academic positions

[edit]

Honorary military appointments

[edit]
Military command Date Regiment Position
Canada Canadian Army July 26, 2021 – present The Governor General's Horse Guards Colonel of the Regiment
Canada Canadian Army July 26, 2021 – present Governor General's Foot Guards Colonel of the Regiment
Canada Canadian Army July 26, 2021 – present The Canadian Grenadier Guards Colonel of the Regiment

Current positions and memberships

[edit]

Simon is a fellow of the Arctic Institute of North America and of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society.[109]

She holds other positions, including the following:

  • Advisor to the European Space Agency (Arctic Monitoring Program)
  • Chairperson, Arctic Children and Youth Foundation
  • Board Member, Indspire
  • Member of the Board of Governors, University of the Arctic
  • Council Member, Crossing Boundaries National Council
  • Member of Advisory Circle, Walter and Duncan Gordon Charitable Foundation[110]
  • Council Member, The National Police Services Advisory Council

Arms

[edit]
Coat of arms of Mary Simon
Notes
Simon was granted armorial bearings by the Canadian Heraldic Authority following her appointment as governor general. The elements of the achievement were chosen to reflect Simon's upbringing and career. The shape of the escutcheon resembles an amauti, a traditional parka worn by Inuit women.[111][112]
Adopted
August 15, 2022
Crest
A snowy owl affronty wings displayed and inverted environed by caribou antlers proper
Escutcheon
Argent an annulet, overall a fess nowy Azure charged with the Royal Crown Argent
Supporters
Two Arctic foxes proper each gorged of a collar Azure pendent therefrom a hurt that to the dexter charged with a mountain sorrel flower, that to the sinister with a cinquefoil Argent, each fox supporting a kakivak and standing on a rocky mount set with a blueberry patch and cottongrass flowers proper
Motto
  • ᐊᔪᐃᓐᓇᑕ
  • Ajuinnata
(Inuktitut for 'Persevere')
Orders

Published works

[edit]

Simon is the author of many works regarding the environment, education, language, and Inuit culture:[113]

Books

  • May Simon, Mary (1996). Inuit: One Future – One Arctic. Peterborough, Ontario: Cider Press. ISBN 1-896851-12-6.

Book contributions

Reports

Articles

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Mary Simon

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Mary Simon, PC CC CMM COM OQ CD (born August 20, 1947), is a Canadian Inuk , former broadcaster, and public servant who has served as the 30th since her installation on July 26, 2021, marking the first appointment of an Indigenous person to the viceregal position. Born in , , , to an Inuk mother and an English father who worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company, Simon's career has centered on advancing rights, interests, and cultural preservation through and advocacy. She began in radio broadcasting with the CBC Northern Service in the 1970s, later serving as an executive for the Northern Quebec Inuit Association and Makivik Corporation, where she contributed to negotiating the and Northern . Simon held influential roles including president of the for two terms, president of the , Canada's first Inuk ambassador as Ambassador for Circumpolar Affairs from 1994 to 2003, and policy co-director for the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples. Her diplomatic efforts helped establish the and promoted environmental protection and awareness of Northern challenges during her tenure as ambassador to from 1999 to 2001. Recognized for her contributions, she was appointed an Officer of the in 2005 and promoted to Companion in 2021, alongside receiving the Governor General’s Northern Medal and the National Aboriginal Achievement Award.

Early Life

Upbringing in Nunavik

Mary Simon was born on August 20, 1947, in (formerly known as George River or Fort Severight), an Inuit community on the eastern shore of Ungava Bay in , northern . Her mother, Nancy May (née Angnatuk-Askew), was , while her father, Bob Mardon May, was an English-Canadian from who had moved north at age 18 to work for the Hudson's Bay Company at the local trading post. As the second child in a mixed-heritage family, Simon grew up in a subarctic environment near the , where Inuit communities relied on hunting, fishing, and seasonal migration for sustenance. Her early years involved immersion in traditional Inuit practices, including sewing traditional clothing, traveling by , and learning from her mother and , alongside the influences of her father's non- background. The family later relocated to , another settlement, where Simon attended an English-language federal for grades 1 through 6, an experience that exposed her to formal amid a lacking content on Indigenous history or perspectives. After grade 6, her father homeschooled her, supplementing the limited schooling available in remote communities during the 1950s. This period shaped her bilingual proficiency in and English from childhood, reflecting the cultural duality of her upbringing in a transitioning society adapting to increased southern Canadian influences.

Education and Formative Experiences

Mary Simon was born on August 20, 1947, in , , , to an mother, Nancy May (Angnatuk-Askew), and an English father, Bob Mardon May, who worked as a fur trader for the Hudson’s Bay Company. Her family relocated to (formerly Fort Chimo), where she spent much of her childhood in the remote Arctic community, immersed in traditions alongside the influences of her mixed heritage. Her father, fluent in , remained in the North, while her unilingual mother provided grounding in traditional life, fostering Simon's bilingual proficiency in and English from an early age. Simon attended an English-speaking federal in for grades 1 through 6, where students were prohibited from speaking under threat of punishment, an experience that introduced her to the realities of colonial-era assimilation policies. After completing sixth grade, she was homeschooled by her father, as her mixed ancestry rendered her ineligible for the residential school system prevalent in at the time. She later pursued through correspondence courses based on the curriculum, enabling her to graduate high school without formal institutional attendance beyond primary levels. These early experiences in Nunavik's federal schooling system highlighted inequities and cultural suppression, shaping Simon's lifelong commitment to Inuit self-determination and reconciliation efforts. The transition to proved a formative positive shift, building resilience and reinforcing her amid the challenges of remote life, including limited access to advanced opportunities. Lacking postsecondary formal , Simon's development emphasized practical learning through community involvement and family guidance, which propelled her into broadcasting and advocacy roles in her late teens and early twenties.

Pre-Gubernatorial Career

Broadcasting and Media Work

Mary Simon commenced her professional career in broadcasting during the late 1960s, serving as a producer, announcer, and host for CBC North, the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation's northern service dedicated to Indigenous communities. From approximately 1969 to 1973, she produced and announced radio programs, often in Inuktitut, to disseminate information relevant to Inuit audiences in remote Arctic regions. Her work extended to television production, where she created content highlighting Inuit cultural and social matters, contributing to the preservation and promotion of Inuktitut language media at a time when Indigenous representation in Canadian broadcasting was limited. In addition to on-air roles, Simon engaged in print media by writing articles for Inuit Today, a monthly publication serving northern Indigenous readers, which allowed her to address topics such as and land rights from an Inuit perspective. This multifaceted involvement in radio, television, and journalism positioned her as one of the early Inuit voices in Canadian media, facilitating communication between northern communities and southern policymakers during negotiations like the and Northern . Her tenure ended in the mid-1970s as she transitioned to roles, but it laid foundational experience in public communication that informed her subsequent diplomatic and organizational leadership.

Advocacy in Inuit Organizations

Mary Simon began her advocacy work in Inuit organizations during the 1970s, initially with the Northern Quebec Inuit Association, where she focused on protecting rights amid negotiations for the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA). In 1978, she was elected vice-president of the Makivik Corporation, the organization established under the JBNQA to represent of and administer land claims benefits. She advanced to president of Makivik in the early 1980s, serving until 1985, during which she oversaw the implementation of the JBNQA provisions, including initiatives, environmental protections, and cultural preservation efforts for approximately 10,000 in northern Quebec. As Makivik president, Simon advocated for Inuit self-determination by negotiating resource management agreements and promoting bilingual education in Inuktitut and English or French, addressing high dropout rates in remote communities. She emphasized sustainable development in the , collaborating on and opposing unchecked industrial expansion that threatened traditional hunting practices. Her leadership helped secure funding for housing, health services, and training programs, laying groundwork for Nunavik's regional governance structures. Simon later chaired the National Committee for Inuit Education under (ITK), Canada's national Inuit organization, where she pushed for culturally relevant curricula to preserve language and reduce educational disparities, noting that Inuit students faced literacy rates below 50% in some areas. From 2006 to 2012, she served two terms as ITK president, representing over 65,000 Inuit across and advocating for land rights, , and climate adaptation strategies amid Arctic ice loss affecting hunting yields by up to 30% in certain regions. In 2008, she delivered ITK's official response to the federal in the , critiquing inadequate funding for initiatives and calling for treaty implementations to address poverty rates exceeding 40% in Inuit communities. Her tenure strengthened ITK's policy influence, including submissions to federal inquiries on , prioritizing Inuit-specific data collection.

Diplomatic Service

Mary Simon's diplomatic career began in 1994 with her appointment as Canada's inaugural for Circumpolar Affairs, a position she held until 2003. In this capacity, she played a pivotal role in negotiating the establishment of the , an intergovernmental forum founded in 1996 comprising eight Arctic states to address and in the region. Her efforts focused on advancing Canadian interests in the circumpolar north, including perspectives on and cross-border cooperation. From 1999 to 2001, Simon served concurrently as Ambassador to the Kingdom of , while retaining her circumpolar responsibilities. This dual role positioned her to engage directly with Danish authorities on matters, given Denmark's oversight of , a key territory in circumpolar affairs. As the first Inuk in such a senior diplomatic post, she advocated for self-determination and cultural preservation amid growing international to northern resource extraction and impacts.

Role as Ambassador to Denmark

Simon's tenure as Ambassador to emphasized bilateral relations with a focus on sovereignty and . She facilitated discussions on and economic partnerships, particularly concerning Greenland's strategic importance to Canadian northern policy. Her diplomatic initiatives included promoting Canada's positions in multilateral forums, building on her prior circumpolar work to foster cooperation on issues like and indigenous youth programs. These efforts contributed to strengthened Canada- ties, though specific quantifiable outcomes, such as treaties or aid packages, are not prominently documented in official records beyond general advancements in dialogue.

Role as Ambassador to Denmark

Mary Simon served as Canada's Ambassador to the Kingdom of Denmark from 1999 to 2001, appointed on August 11, 1999. This appointment made her the first Inuk to hold a Canadian ambassadorial position. She held the role concurrently with her position as Canada's inaugural Ambassador for Circumpolar Affairs, which she had assumed in and continued until 2003. In her diplomatic capacities, Simon focused on advancing Canadian priorities in and circumpolar regions, including bilateral relations with on shared northern interests. Her work emphasized collaboration with communities in , a Danish autonomous territory, to address cross-border Indigenous issues such as and . She leveraged her heritage and prior advocacy experience to foster dialogue between Canadian and Danish stakeholders, contributing to strengthened ties in the domain. Simon's tenure built on her earlier involvement in circumpolar negotiations, including efforts toward the 1996 establishment of the , an intergovernmental forum for among states. Through these roles, she promoted perspectives in international policy, prioritizing empirical assessments of regional challenges like impacts and over ideological frameworks.

Later Professional Roles

Following her diplomatic roles, Mary Simon served two terms as president of (ITK), Canada's national Inuit organization, from 2006 to 2012. In this capacity, she advanced Inuit , health, education, and environmental priorities, including negotiations on land claims and resource development in . A notable contribution was her delivery of an official Inuit response in the on June 11, 2008, to Prime Minister Stephen Harper's apology for the harms inflicted by the Indian residential school system, emphasizing reconciliation and cultural preservation. After her ITK presidency, Simon chaired the National Committee on Inuit Education until 2014, focusing on strategies to enhance , relevance, and access to post-secondary opportunities in communities amid persistent gaps in graduation rates and funding. She also founded the Arctic Children and Youth Foundation, which supported youth-led initiatives in , , and leadership training across regions until at least 2014. In 2017, Simon was appointed Minister’s Special Representative for Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, where she authored the report A New Shared Arctic Leadership Model, recommending collaborative governance frameworks involving Inuit organizations, federal and territorial governments, and international partners to address , , and impacts in the . Until her gubernatorial appointment, she continued as senior negotiator for Inuit in self-determination processes with the government, advancing marine resource management and regional autonomy agreements.

Appointment as Governor General

Nomination by Prime Minister Trudeau

On July 6, 2021, Justin Trudeau announced that Queen Elizabeth II had approved his recommendation to appoint Mary Simon as the 30th , following the of her predecessor, , on January 21, 2021, amid reports of a environment at . The announcement occurred at the Canadian Museum of History in , , where Trudeau emphasized Simon's lifelong commitment to issues, her diplomatic experience—including serving as Canada's ambassador to from 1999 to 2002—and her advocacy for between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians. Trudeau's selection process involved consultations, though details remain opaque, as the prime minister holds the effective authority to recommend the appointment to the monarch under Canada's constitutional conventions. Simon, an Inuk from Nunavik, was positioned as a symbolic milestone—the first Indigenous person appointed to the viceregal role—aligning with Trudeau's government's emphasis on diversity and Indigenous representation amid heightened national focus on residential school legacies and reconciliation efforts. However, her limited proficiency in French, stemming from inadequate formal instruction in Inuit communities, drew early scrutiny, with critics arguing it contravened unwritten bilingual expectations for the office; Trudeau defended the choice by prioritizing her substantive qualifications over linguistic fluency. The nomination proceeded without parliamentary approval, as is customary, though opposition leaders expressed general support, noting the delay in filling the vacancy—spanning over five months—had strained institutional continuity. Simon's prior roles, such as co-founding the Inuit Circumpolar Council and leading negotiations on Arctic sovereignty, were cited by Trudeau as evidence of her suitability to represent Canada internationally and advance northern Indigenous priorities.

Installation and Immediate Public Response

Mary Simon was installed as the 30th on July 26, 2021, during a ceremony in the chamber in . The event, scaled back due to restrictions, featured a limited in-person audience of essential dignitaries, including and parliamentary leaders, with broader public access via live broadcast. Key elements included Simon taking the , the presentation of the symbolizing her authority to assent to legislation, and the bestowal of additional Canadian honours. Traditional Indigenous protocols marked the occasion, such as the lighting of a Inuit oil lamp and a First Nations drumming circle greeting her arrival. In her installation address, Simon highlighted the historic significance of her appointment as the first Indigenous person—and specifically the first Inuk—to hold the office, stating she was "honoured, humbled and ready" to represent all Canadians while advancing with . She pledged to foster unity amid division, drawing on her roots and experiences in and to bridge cultural gaps. The ceremony elicited immediate acclaim from Indigenous communities and leaders, who described it as a profound symbol of progress and inclusion, with many expressing tears of pride and viewing Simon's role as elevating Northern and Indigenous voices nationally. President Natan Obed called the moment "exciting, proud and emotional," reflecting broad enthusiasm among Ottawa's organizations. Government officials, including , praised the appointment as a step toward a more representative viceregal office. However, early concerns surfaced over Simon's proficiency in French—despite her fluency in English and —with francophone critics questioning the suitability for a role demanding bilingualism in Canada's official languages policy, though she committed to intensive study. These linguistic debates, while not overshadowing the celebratory tone, underscored expectations for the position's representational demands.

Tenure as Governor General

Domestic Initiatives and Engagements

Upon installation as Governor General on July 26, 2021, Mary Simon outlined mandate priorities centered on reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, mental health and wellness, diversity and inclusion, education and youth engagement, and the environment. These emphases guide her domestic activities, which emphasize ceremonial representation, public advocacy, and patronage of organizations aligned with these themes, rather than direct policy formulation. In reconciliation efforts, Simon has issued annual messages on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, such as her September 30, 2025, statement highlighting initiatives for revitalization and urging ongoing commitment to healing from residential school legacies. She facilitated a May 2023 meeting between King Charles III and Indigenous leaders, including president Natan Obed, to advance discussions on reconciliation during the monarch's visit. In July 2022, she addressed reconciliation in a multilingual speech (English, French, ) during Francis's visit, calling for institutional accountability on historical abuses. Simon has described reconciliation as an "overarching" priority, asserting in September 2025 that resource development projects can coexist with it if are respected. On and wellness, Simon launched a Mental Health Learning Series to foster dialogue and awareness, extending viceregal to organizations like the Foundation, which integrates mental health supports in educational programs for northern youth. Her pre-gubernatorial founding of the Arctic Children and Youth Foundation in 2012 informs this focus, providing physical and resources in communities. Youth engagement features prominently through speeches and events, such as her 2022 address to 16,000 students at Miyo-Wiciwitowin Day in Regina, emphasizing education's role in , followed by direct interactions. In 2023, she prioritized support for 2024, reflecting on her tenure's inspirational impact on Indigenous aspirations. Domestic engagements include viceregal visits, such as to from February 5-9, 2025, and , , from July 7-9, 2025, where she participated in community events promoting her priorities. She also extended patronage to initiatives like the and received the first Remembrance Day poppy in 2025 from the Royal Canadian Legion, underscoring community service. A January 15, 2025, to Canadians reflected on hope, respect, and , incorporating public input.

International Duties and Representations

As , Mary Simon represents the monarch and the country in international ceremonies and events, undertaking state and official visits to promote , deepen bilateral ties, and advance shared interests with partner nations. These duties include attending key royal and global gatherings on behalf of . Simon's first overseas trip in her role occurred from October 17 to 21, 2021, to , encompassing engagements in and participation in the to highlight Canadian publishing and cultural exchanges. In June 2022, she travelled to the from June 2 to 6 for the celebrations marking Queen Elizabeth II's 70 years on the throne, including official events and audiences that underscored Canada's connections. In October 2022, Simon attended the Assembly in Reykjavik, , from October 12 to 15, focusing on circumpolar cooperation and Indigenous perspectives in northern policy discussions. She conducted a to from February 6 to 10, 2023, engaging with President and other officials to strengthen Canada-Finland relations, particularly in Arctic security and sustainability. In May 2023, she represented Canada at the coronation of King Charles III, attending the service at on May 6 and related receptions. Simon extended her international engagements with an eight-day mission to the in early 2022, involving diplomatic meetings to bolster economic and security partnerships. More recently, she visited , , from August 27 to September 1, 2024, to attend the closing ceremonies of the and support Canadian athletes, emphasizing inclusion and resilience. These representations align with her prior diplomatic experience, often incorporating advocacy for Indigenous and issues in global forums.

Focus on Indigenous and Northern Issues

As , Mary Simon has prioritized with , establishing the Governor General's Advisory Group on to offer guidance on advancing these efforts within her office. This initiative draws on her lifelong for rights, emphasizing practical steps like and led by Indigenous communities themselves. Simon has repeatedly addressed the legacy of residential schools, hosting events at to mark the tenth anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action in September 2025. In her message for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, 2025, she acknowledged progress in public awareness of residential schools' harms while urging all to sustain efforts, stating that the nation possesses the necessary tools and knowledge to build equity for Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples alike. She has shared personal reflections on carrying guilt from intergenerational impacts of these schools, crediting a "tremendous change" in Canadian attitudes over the past decade. Additionally, Simon has argued that , including major resource projects, can align with if it includes Indigenous participation, noting the need for an that benefits Indigenous communities directly. On Northern issues, Simon has conducted targeted visits to Arctic regions, including her first official trip to in May 2024 and a return to from July 7 to 9, 2025, as the final stop on her Learning and Listening Tour, which addressed community challenges like prevalent in areas. She described the 2025 visit as "like coming home," engaging with local leaders on health and cultural preservation. Earlier, in May 2022, she visited , her birthplace in northern , to reconnect with communities. Internationally, Simon has represented on matters, delivering a keynote address in in October 2022 on Northern cooperation and participating in panels on diversity in leadership, underscoring the integration of Indigenous knowledge in and policy responses. Her engagements align with 's and Northern Policy Framework, which she influenced pre-appointment, advocating for self-determination amid environmental pressures.

Responses to National and Global Events

In response to the death of Queen Elizabeth II on September 8, 2022, Mary Simon issued an official message expressing condolences on behalf of Canadians to the Royal Family and emphasizing the Queen's lifelong service and bond with . She delivered a live statement to Canadians that day, reflecting on the Queen's impact and 's constitutional ties to the . Simon later participated in mourning events, including signing a book of condolences, and in her 2023 New Year's address, she commemorated the first anniversary of the Queen's passing while affirming her role in representing King Charles III. Regarding Russia's full-scale invasion of beginning February 24, 2022, Simon issued multiple statements supporting 's sovereignty and resilience. On the first anniversary in 2023, she hosted a ceremony at and met with Ukrainian President during his visit to , encouraging perseverance with the term ajuinnata, meaning "never give up." On the third anniversary in 2025, she reiterated condemnation of the invasion's devastation and praised Ukrainian determination amid ongoing conflict. Simon described the war as a global risk, highlighting its implications for international stability in a 2022 . Domestically, Simon addressed the through public encouragement of following her own positive test on February 9, 2022, which caused mild symptoms; she urged adherence to health measures while isolating. Her installation ceremony on July 26, 2021, was scaled back due to pandemic restrictions, with virtual elements to limit gatherings. During the 2022 Freedom Convoy protests against COVID mandates, her office received thousands of calls from supporters requesting and removal of Prime Minister —requests she did not act upon, as her role precludes such intervention; staff clarified that Canadians cannot petition her to overthrow the government. In June 2025, amid severe wildfires in , Simon released a statement expressing with affected communities, praising , and calling for sustained recovery efforts. She has consistently marked the for Truth and Reconciliation with speeches and events, such as her September 30, 2025, address in reflecting on residential school impacts and progress in reconciliation, emphasizing Inuit-led education and dialogue. Internationally, during the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, , from June 15–17, 2025, she welcomed world leaders, underscoring Canada's role in global discussions on security and climate.

Controversies During Tenure

Debates Over French Language Proficiency

Mary Simon's appointment as Governor General in 2021 drew immediate scrutiny over her limited proficiency in , one of Canada's two official languages, particularly given the position's ceremonial duties in . Critics argued that her inability to converse fluently undermined her representativeness in francophone regions, leading to a legal challenge filed in Superior Court by lawyer Gilles Rhéaume, who contended that the role constitutionally requires bilingualism. In August 2023, the court ruled that a judge could hear the case, though it has not resulted in her removal. The issue resurfaced prominently in September 2024 when an official event in was abruptly cancelled following media reports highlighting Simon's struggles to hold conversations in French during a provincial visit. Simon's office reported that she has undergone approximately 324 hours of French instruction from two providers at a cost of $52,415 as of September 2025, emphasizing her ongoing commitment to improvement despite her Inuk upbringing in , where French was not emphasized in schooling. In response to the backlash, Simon asserted her roots, stating, "I am a Quebecer," and maintained that her language limitations do not impede her representational duties.

Criticisms of Expenses and Fiscal Management

Simon's tenure has faced repeated criticism for substantial taxpayer-funded expenditures, including travel and personal items, amid broader scrutiny of the Governor General's office budget exceeding $50 million annually. A 2022 tour costing $1.3 million drew ire for including $100,000 in in-flight catering alone, while a separate visit that year tallied $1.17 million with $93,118 for onboard meals. The Canadian Taxpayers Federation highlighted additional outlays, such as $71,000 for services over four days and over $88,000 in clothing expenses across recent governors general, including $1,117 for shoes billed by Simon in 2024-2025. In March 2024, Simon's salary increased to $362,800, prompting further backlash from fiscal watchdogs who questioned the justification amid economic pressures on Canadians. Simon defended certain costs as necessary for official duties involving large delegations and argued media portrayals, such as those of her international trips, were "unfair" by omitting context like comprehensive and protocol requirements. Parliamentary recommendations in 2023 called for reforms to curb such spending, including limits on wardrobe reimbursements, reflecting ongoing concerns over accountability in the non-partisan viceregal role.

Questions of Political Impartiality and Role Relevance

Concerns over Simon's political impartiality arose in April 2024 when she hosted a on online harms at , coinciding with the Liberal government's advancement of Bill C-63, a controversial online safety bill criticized for potential . Constitutional expert Philippe Lagassé argued that the event, framed around themes aligned with the legislation, compromised the Governor General's expected neutrality, as the office should avoid associations with partisan policy debates. columnist Jamie Sarkonak described the initiative as the office "playing politics" without electoral accountability, urging viceroys to refrain from intervening in legislative matters. Broader questions about the Governor General's relevance persisted, with detractors viewing the role as anachronistic and costly in a modern parliamentary democracy where the position's reserve powers are rarely invoked. Simon's emphasis on Indigenous reconciliation and northern issues, while central to her mandate, fueled perceptions among some conservatives of alignment with Trudeau's progressive agenda, potentially eroding in the office's apolitical status. Despite these critiques, supporters maintain that her symbolic representation of Indigenous perspectives enhances the monarchy's relevance in diverse , though no formal investigations into breaches have occurred.

Debates Over French Language Proficiency

Mary Simon's appointment as Governor General on July 6, , immediately drew criticism for her lack of fluency in French, one of Canada's two languages, despite her proficiency in English and . Critics, particularly in , argued that the vice-regal role demands bilingualism to effectively represent the nation's linguistic duality, with a Angus Reid poll revealing that only 35% of Canadians viewed her French limitation as a disqualifier, though support cleaved sharply along linguistic lines—Quebecers were far less approving than English speakers. politicians and media outlets, including leader , contended that the position's ceremonial and diplomatic duties in francophone contexts necessitated stronger skills, questioning whether the federal government under had overlooked this in prioritizing her Indigenous and Northern expertise. The debate intensified in September 2024 when a planned event featuring Simon was cancelled amid backlash over her anticipated reliance on interpreters, highlighting unease even among some Liberals about her capacity to engage unilingually in French-dominant settings. Simon responded by affirming her commitment to improvement, stating in a September 29, 2024, interview that her background as an Inuk from —where she identifies as a "Quebecer"—does not preclude effective representation, and insisting that her efforts suffice despite imperfections. Her office disclosed that, as of September 2025, she had undergone approximately 324 hours of private French instruction from two providers at a taxpayer cost of $52,415, averaging over two hours weekly since her installation, yet critics maintained that adult acquisition of conversational fluency remained elusive, fueling perceptions of inadequate progress. This has broader implications for Canadian bilingualism , challenging the assumption that high-level officials can readily achieve proficiency later in life, especially for non-francophones from remote regions with limited prior exposure. Quebec-based commentators, such as those in French-language media, expressed ongoing shock at public appearances where Simon struggled with basic exchanges, arguing it undermines the symbolic equality of French in federal institutions. Defenders, including Simon's office, emphasized her use of translators and scripted French in official capacities as practical accommodations, while noting no constitutional mandate explicitly requires GG bilingualism, though convention has favored it since the 1960s. The issue persists as of October 2025, with calls from some quarters for future appointees to demonstrate baseline fluency upfront to avoid similar divides.

Criticisms of Expenses and Fiscal Management

Mary Simon's international travel as Governor General has drawn scrutiny for its high costs, particularly in-flight catering and total expenditures. A 2022 trip to the lasted one week and cost taxpayers $1.3 million, including $100,000 for food and beverages on the flight. Another 2022 journey to totaled $1.17 million, with $93,118 specifically for inflight catering. During her first full year in office, overall travel expenses reached $3 million. Simon's office defended these figures, arguing that media coverage misrepresented the inclusive nature of vice-regal travel, which encompasses security, staff, and diplomatic necessities, while Simon herself described portrayals as "unfair." Personal and wardrobe-related spending has also faced criticism from fiscal watchdogs and parliamentarians. Simon expensed $1,117 for a single pair of shoes in 2024-2025, contributing to broader concerns over purchases that governors general retain post-tenure. Combined with her predecessor , such expenses exceeded $88,000 since 2017, including items like a $680 . Additional outlays included $117,000 for services over a period tracked by media reports. The Canadian Taxpayers Federation has urged an end to taxpayer-funded wardrobe expansions, citing them as unjustifiable given the Governor General's $378,000 annual in 2025, which followed a $15,200 raise. In response to these controversies, a parliamentary recommended reforms to curb Rideau Hall's budgeting in 2023, highlighting excessive limo services ($71,000 for a four-day event) and other line items as emblematic of poor fiscal oversight. Critics, including the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, argue these patterns reflect entitlement amid broader pressures, though the office maintains that expenditures align with constitutional duties and have not exceeded allocated budgets, which total around $55 million annually for the Governor General's operations.

Questions of Political Impartiality and Role Relevance

Critics have questioned Mary Simon's adherence to the viceregal tradition of political neutrality, particularly following her office's organization of a on "digital respect" in April 2024, which coincided with the Liberal government's introduction of Bill C-63, an expansive online harms legislative proposal. Conservative MPs, including , accused Justice Minister of exploiting Simon's non-partisan office to advance partisan policy goals, arguing that her involvement blurred the line between ceremonial duties and legislative advocacy. A spokesperson for Simon defended the event as a non-partisan discussion on broader societal issues like , emphasizing her mandate to foster national dialogue without endorsing specific bills. Simon's pre-appointment career as an advocate for rights, including her leadership in organizations like and her public campaigns on sovereignty and Indigenous reconciliation, has also prompted debate over whether her activist background aligns with the Governor General's requirement for impartiality. Observers from conservative-leaning outlets have argued that her emphasis on Indigenous-focused initiatives during tenure—such as promoting truth and —risks appearing aligned with the appointing Liberal government's policy priorities, potentially eroding in the office's detachment from elected politics. Supporters counter that such engagements fall within the Governor General's symbolic role to highlight marginalized voices, without direct policy influence, and note that previous incumbents have similarly pursued thematic priorities like or . Regarding the relevance of the Governor General's role itself, some commentators have raised concerns that Simon's high-profile advocacy stretches the boundaries of a position traditionally confined to ceremonial functions, such as assenting to legislation on the prime minister's advice and representing the Crown. In a May 2025 opinion piece, National Post columnist Carson Jerema criticized statements from Simon's office interpreting King Charles III's role in a manner that diminished monarchical authority, suggesting a drift toward republican sentiments inconsistent with constitutional monarchy. These critiques posit that in an era of elected executives dominating public discourse, the viceroy's interventions on policy-adjacent topics undermine the office's apolitical reserve, though proponents argue her actions modernize the role to address contemporary challenges like digital ethics and Indigenous inclusion without overstepping reserve powers. No formal investigations or parliamentary inquiries into these matters have been launched as of October 2025.

Personal Life

Family Background and Relationships

Mary Simon was born on August 20, 1947, in Kangiqsualujjuaq, Nunavik, Quebec, to an Inuk mother, Nancy May (née Angnatuk-Askew), and an English-Canadian father, Bob Mardon May, who originated from Manitoba and managed the local Hudson's Bay Company post. Her mother's Inuit heritage connected Simon to traditional practices, including hunting and the use of tools like the kakivak fishing spear, skills passed down from her grandmother and female relatives. Simon's Inuk name is Ningiukudluk, translating to "bossy little old lady," reflecting aspects of her early family dynamics. As the second of eight children—four brothers and four sisters—Simon grew up in a bilingual household where was spoken at home with her unilingual relatives, while her father emphasized English and elements of non- culture. Her siblings included brothers Johnny, Peter, Billy, and Bobby May, and sisters Madge Pomerleau, Sarah Tagoona, and Annie Popert; the family endured harsh living conditions typical of mid-20th-century . Simon has been married three times. Her first marriage was to Robert Otis on March 27, 1967; she later married George Simon. In 1994, she wed her current husband, , a former CBC journalist from , , with whom she has maintained a partnership of nearly 30 years; the couple met professionally years earlier while both were in prior marriages. She is the mother of three children: two sons and one daughter.

Personal Challenges and Residences

Mary Simon experienced the rigors of traditional Inuit life in her early years in , , , where she was born on August 20, 1947, including participation in hunting, fishing, sewing traditional clothing, and traveling by dog sled—skills passed down from her Inuk mother, Nancy May, and grandmother. Her mixed heritage, with an English father employed by the , resulted in her exclusion from federal programs designating Inuit children for residential schools; instead, her father homeschooled her initially to ensure education amid the harsh Arctic environment. She subsequently attended an English-language federal in for grades 1 through 6, but this spared her direct involvement while exposing her to the community's trauma as peers and relatives were forcibly removed to residential institutions, fostering a sense of survivor's guilt she has reflected upon as a profound emotional burden. These formative challenges in a remote, setting—marked by limited infrastructure, reliance on subsistence living, and systemic marginalization of families—contributed to Simon's development of resilience, which she has attributed to familial guidance and the necessity of perseverance in public life. No major personal health crises or family tragedies beyond community-wide impacts are documented in her biography, though she has advocated for awareness drawing from broader experiences of adversity. Simon primarily resided in northern Inuit communities during her upbringing and early career in broadcasting, reflecting her deep ties to . As the 30th since July 26, 2021, she has occupied in , the 79-acre official residence and workplace encompassing state rooms, gardens, and historic grounds used for official duties. Prior residences aligned with diplomatic postings, such as her ambassadorship to from 1999 to 2001, but details remain centered on her northern origins and capital-based roles.

Honours, Awards, and Recognitions

Canadian National Honours

Mary Simon was appointed a Member of the on November 1, 1991, in recognition of her leadership as president of the Circumpolar Conference and her advocacy for rights and northern development. Upon her installation as on July 26, 2021, she was promoted to Companion of the , the order's highest level, by Queen Elizabeth II, reflecting her lifetime contributions to , , and Indigenous representation. In conjunction with her viceregal role, Simon was invested as Commander of the Order of Military Merit (C.M.M.) and Commander of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces (C.O.M.), honours denoting exemplary service in and domains, respectively, though her investitures underscore the ceremonial duties of the office rather than prior operational involvement. She also holds the Governor General's Northern Medal, awarded for distinguished service in Canada's and northern communities, aligning with her longstanding focus on and circumpolar issues. Additionally, Simon received the Officer level of the Ordre national du Québec (O.Q.), Quebec's highest provincial honour, for her work bridging Indigenous and broader Canadian interests.
HonourLevelDatePurpose
Order of CanadaMember (initial); promoted to Companion (C.C.)November 1, 1991 (Member); July 26, 2021 (Companion)Recognition of advocacy for Inuit rights and national reconciliation efforts.
Order of Military MeritCommander (C.M.M.)July 26, 2021Viceregal investiture for exemplary military-related service.
Order of Merit of the Police ForcesCommander (C.O.M.)July 26, 2021Viceregal investiture for contributions to policing excellence.
Governor General's Northern Medal-Prior to 2021Service in northern and Arctic development.
Ordre national du QuébecOfficer (O.Q.)Prior to 2021Provincial recognition of public and Indigenous leadership.

International and Regional Awards

Mary Simon received the Gold Order of , the highest class of the Greenland Medal of Merit, for her advocacy on rights and issues, reflecting cross-border recognition of her circumpolar work. In the regional context of , Simon was appointed an of the Ordre national du Québec, honouring her contributions to cultural and Indigenous affairs within the province. These awards underscore her influence beyond federal Canadian boundaries, particularly in northern and Indigenous diplomacy, though specific conferral dates for the honour remain undocumented in official records.

Academic and Honorary Positions

Mary Simon served as the seventh Chancellor of from 1995 to 1999 and was reappointed in 2002, roles in which she represented the institution in ceremonial capacities and supported its mission in higher education. In recognition of her contributions, conferred upon her an honorary Doctor of Laws degree in 2005. Simon has received at least twelve honorary Doctor of Laws degrees from Canadian universities, reflecting her lifelong advocacy for Inuit rights, Arctic sovereignty, and circumpolar cooperation. These include awards from , , , Saint Thomas University, (2016), (2016), , (2013), (2011), , (2005), and the Royal Military College of Canada (2024).

Symbolic and Official Elements

Coat of Arms and Heraldry

Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, as Governor General of Canada, was granted a personal coat of arms by the Canadian Heraldic Authority, reflecting her Inuit heritage, northern upbringing, diplomatic career, family ties, and commitment to reconciliation between Indigenous peoples and other Canadians. The achievement was developed over a year in collaboration with Dr. Samy Khalid, Chief Herald of Canada, and unveiled publicly on October 28, 2022, in Ottawa. The shield takes the shape of an , the traditional Inuit parka worn by women, symbolizing maternal protection and cultural identity; its field evokes the snow and skies of , with a horizontal band across the chief representing Simon's trailblazing path in Inuit and circumpolar affairs, while a central disc and circle denote an inclusive bond between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Atop the shield sits a royal crown, signifying her role as the Sovereign's representative in . The crest features a , emblematic of Simon's agility, adaptability, and diplomatic prowess, issuant from caribou antlers that highlight the worldview of human-nature interconnectedness. Supporters include an on one side, denoting endurance and her international , adorned with a of mountain sorrel (a Nunavik plant) and a kakivak honouring her grandmother's teachings; the opposite side bears a with a flower, the of her husband Whit Fraser's lineage. The motto, rendered in Inuktitut syllabics as Ajuinnata, translates to "Let us persevere" or "never give up," encapsulating Simon's life principle of resilience amid challenges and her aspirations for truth and reconciliation in . The compartment depicts a blueberry patch—recalling her childhood pastime of berry picking—and tufts of cottongrass, traditionally used for wicks in the Inuit qulliq lamp, underscoring sustenance and cultural continuity. Suspended below are badges of her honours: the Companion insignia of the at centre, flanked by those of Commander of the Order of Military Merit and Commander of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces. The full achievement, painted by Fraser Herald Cathy Sabourin and calligraphed by Doris Wionzek, serves as a heraldic embodiment of Simon's personal and viceregal identity.

Published Contributions

Mary Simon has authored several publications addressing Inuit perspectives on Arctic governance, cultural preservation, education, and environmental challenges, often drawing from her roles in Inuit advocacy organizations. Her written works emphasize , circumpolar , and the integration of Indigenous knowledge into policy frameworks. These contributions span books, journal articles, and official reports, reflecting her experience as a former for and contributor to Inuit Monthly magazine, where she produced articles in on community and northern issues during the . In 1997, Simon published Inuit: One Future, One , a book examining development, the role of the Circumpolar Conference, and Canadian policies affecting northern Indigenous communities. The work highlights pathways for unified action across nations amid geopolitical and environmental shifts. Simon contributed the article " and the Canadian : Sovereignty Begins at Home" to the Journal of Canadian Studies (volume 43, issue 2, 2009), asserting that Canada's sovereignty claims necessitate equal treatment of as full Canadian citizens, including access to resources and authority. She also wrote "Canadian : Where We Have Been and Where We Are Going" (published in Études//Studies, 1993), tracing historical experiences under colonial policies and advocating for future self-governance and cultural revitalization. As Minister's Special Representative on in 2017, Simon authored A New Shared Model, an independent report submitted to Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada. The document proposes collaborative governance structures involving organizations to enhance Canada's policy, emphasizing shared decision-making, capacity-building, and integration of Indigenous priorities in areas like , economy, and climate adaptation. Additionally, Simon submitted "Indigenous Peoples and the Right to Development: An Inuit Perspective" to the Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1993, outlining Inuit views on development rights within international frameworks, including land rights and sustainable resource use in the . Her publications collectively underscore a consistent theme of empowering Inuit agency in response to external pressures on northern territories.

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  98. https://www.gg.ca/en/activities/2025/alberta-visit
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