Mr. Speaker, I am thrilled to stand in the House today to highlight the significant achievements of Jeremy Dutcher, who is being awarded this year's Governor General's National Arts Centre Award in recognition of his extraordinary work as an artist, composer, activist, ethnomusicologist and language carrier.
A Wolastoqiyik member of the Tobique first nation, Dutcher was born and raised in Fredericton and has been instrumental in preserving and sharing the Wolastoqiyik language and culture. He is the only two-time Polaris prize winner, a Juno Award winner and has performed on many of the most important stages around the world.
From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank Jeremy for his art, his values and his passion. As the region's representative, I would like to congratulate Jeremy on his extraordinary achievements.
Kuli-kiseht, Jeremy.
Congratulations.