On Tuesday, Georgina Jolibois’s voice broke as she spoke in parliament about last month’s mass shooting in La Loche.
Jolibois, the Desnethe-Missinipi Churchill River MP, stood in the Ottawa House of Commons to extend thanks across Canada.
It’s been several weeks since a shooter killed two brothers, and then opened fire in the community’s high school, killing two more.
La Loche and Clearwater River Dene Nation have received heartfelt messages, and Jolibois turned things back around to share the impact of the love from across Canada.
“Marci cho to all Canadians who sent their thoughts and prayers to La Loche and Clearwater River Dene Nation. Thank you for the comfort you have given us, thank you for the strength you have given us and thank you for the hope you have given us,” she said.
Jolibois also thanked the heroic actions of people in the school, the RCMP, fire department and first responders.
“With the government’s help and support from all Canadians, together we can rebuild La Loche and Clearwater River Dene Nation,” she said, as her voice cracked.
The House of Commons erupted in applause after the statement.
Recent community meetings in La Loche have revealed that many are eager to get back to their studies, despite the trauma that occurred within the high school.
Elementary students will return to their school next week, and it seems high school will be delayed until at least March.