‘We’re doing a lot’: Manitoba Lt.-Gov., proud of reconciliation work being done

Reconciliation was a hot topic for Manitoba’s lieutenant-governor and her counterparts as they convened in Ottawa to meet Canada’s new Governor General.

Lt.-Gov. Anita Neville attended Gov. Gen. Louise Arbour’s swearing-in ceremony on Monday.

Both women represent the Crown — Neville at a provincial level, and Arbour federally.

“It was lovely to meet her,” Neville said, adding the two had met once before. “She was warm, she was welcoming.”

Arbour has been a prosecutor for the International Criminal Tribunals and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. She’s personable, Neville said.

The pair spoke about a mutual friend during a quick chat Monday. On Tuesday, lieutenant-governors from across the country gathered for lunch with Arbour.

Reconciliation was a “big conversation,” Neville said.

She noted each province is different: British Columbia, for example, has many nations but few treaties.

She left feeling proud of the work being done in Manitoba.

“We’re doing a lot here,” Neville said. “We have been meeting with all of the Indigenous leadership.”

There’s been events and lectures about reconciliation and the impact of residential schools. Further meetings and lunches are in the works, Neville said.

Two years ago, she announced a partnership with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation; Manitobans could sign up for free presentations.

Tuesday’s lunch was a time for learning from peers and providing a Manitoba update, Neville said, adding the tone was “relaxed.”

“It was a very trusting environment,” she said.

She and staff hosted an event Saturday where Manitobans could meet her and tour Government House.

On the lawn outside, people played croquet and listened to music. Cindy Hutchinson sat on a picnic bench; she’s been to several Government House functions.

“I definitely agree — reconciliation has to happen,” Hutchinson said, considering Neville’s lunch in Ottawa.

“Anita Neville and all of the counterparts across the country — they have to work together. This isn’t a one-person job.”

Neville has a number of responsibilities, including to promote Indigenous cultures and to give Royal Assent to proposed legislation, making it law. She was sworn in as Manitoba’s 26th lieutenant-governor in 2022.

Arbour gave her first speech Monday and encouraged “peaceful management” of differences and an ability to coexist peacefully, to maintain a lawful and rules-based society.

gabrielle.piche@winnipegfreepress.com