Three Pond Inlet residents receive Diamond Jubilee medals

The Diamond Jubilee Medal, issued during the 60th anniversary year of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, honours Canadians for their contributions to society.

Three Nunavummiut from Pond Inlet — Theresa Koopa Maktar, David Parks and Thomas Ootook — have received Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medals in recognition of their contributions to the community.

While in Pond Inlet on March 23, Premier Eva Aariak presented the medals, which mark the 2012 celebrations of the 60th anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the throne.

Some 60,000 Canadians will receive Diamond Jubilee medals during the year.

In a Government of Nunavut news release, Aariak said Maktar is committed to Inuit culture and language.

“She is an Inuk woman with many skills and abilities who has accomplished much in her life,” Aariak said.

Parks, a retired teacher, lived with his family in Pond Inlet for 30 years.

“His grandchildren still live in the community and are active on local radio and in church,” Aariak said.

Ootook is “dedicated to counselling Nunavummiut, not only in his own community, but in 19 northern communities, where he has been helping others for more than 24 years,” Aariak said.

Governor General David Johnston presented Aariak with a Diamond Jubilee medal Feb. 6.

Athlete Johnny Issaluk was also honoured with a Diamond Jubilee medal on same day, as was the late Bishop Jack Sperry.