Miles Morrisseau
ICT
Canada’s first Indigenous governor general is stepping down after nearly five years as the nation’s official representative of King Charles III.
Mary Simon, who was appointed to the post in July 2021 by then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, is being replaced Louise Arbour, who served as justice on the Supreme Court of Canada and as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights.
Canada is a member of the British Commonwealth, and the governor general is the ceremonial representative of the King or Queen in the parliamentary system.
Current Prime Minister Mark Carney posted accolades on social media to Simon, who was the first Indigenous person to hold the position. Arbour is set to take over in July.
“Thank you to Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon for her exemplary tenure as Governor General and for her lifetime of advocacy for Inuit rights, Indigenous self-determination, and the preservation of Indigenous language, culture, and identity,” Carney posted.
“As she prepares to exit the role, her legacy will endure not only in her service, but in the way she served — with an unshakable belief in Canada,” he said.
Canada Prime Minister Mark Carney walks with Louise Arbour to announce she will be the new governor general during an event in Ottawa, on May 5 2026. She replaces Mary Simon, who was the first Indigenous person to serve in the position. Credit: Adrian Wyld/The Canadian Press via AP
The Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami organization, the national representative of Inuit in Canada, likewise commended Simon’s service and commitment to Inuit people.
“ITK sends profound thanks to Mary Simon for her dedicated service as the first Inuk to serve in this prestigious role,” the organization said in a statement. “From her humble beginnings in Kangiqsualujjuaq, Nunavik, Simon has been a tireless advocate for Inuit rights and we are so proud that the rest of Canada, and the world, got to experience her wisdom, knowledge and leadership. We wish Simon much success and good health in the years to come.”
The organization also welcomed Arbour, and said officials looked forward to working with her to ensure dignity, equity and prosperity for Inuit in Canada.
As the representative of the Crown, beginning with the late Queen Elizabeth II and continuing on to King Charles III, Simon participated in historical moments of reconciliation, including the apology by Pope Francis for the role of the Catholic Church in Canada’s notorious residential school system.
Simon attended the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022 and was accompanied by ITK President Nated Obed, Assembly of First Nations National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak and Métis National Council President Victoria Pruden.
The Métis National Council also took to social media to thank Simon for her service.
“As Canada’s first Indigenous Governor General, she brought wisdom, dignity, and a deep commitment to advancing Indigenous voices, rights, and cultures on the national and international stage,” the council posted. “From her early work advocating for Inuit rights to her leadership in this historic role, Governor General Simon has helped shape a stronger, more inclusive Canada.”
Woodhouse Nepinak also praised the outgoing governor general.
“The Assembly of First Nations honours the leadership of Governor General Mary Simon, whose tenure reflected the strength, resilience, and voices of the First Peoples across these lands,” Woodhouse Nepinak said. “Her presence in this role was deeply meaningful for First Nations and for all Canadians. First Nations have a historic relationship with the Crown, and Governor General Simon’s commitments to reconciliation and recognition of rights were significant and inspiring. Her legacy will endure.”
The national chief said that the Simon’s tenure “marked a significant moment in Canada’s history. Her leadership helped elevate national conversations around identity, inclusion, and the path forward in renewing relationships between First Peoples and the Crown.”
The national chief also welcomed Arbour to the position.
“The AFN welcomes the appointment of Ms. Arbour, whose distinguished career on the highest court of Canada and in the international sphere is marked by a strong commitment to advancing justice and human rights,” Woodhouse Nepinak said. “Ms. Arbour brings significant experience to the office of the Governor General, including an understanding of the systemic issues within justice systems that impact First Nations and First Nations rights. Her knowledge and experience present an opportunity to deepen awareness and respect for First Nations laws and traditions.”
Adam van Koeverden, a Member of Parliament who serves as Secretary of State for Sport in Canada, offered Simon commendations.
“As we welcome a new chapter at Rideau Hall, I want to take a moment to recognize the extraordinary service of the Honourable Mary Simon,” the former Olympian posted online. “As Canada’s first Indigenous Governor General, her tenure has been historic — marked by a deep commitment to reconciliation, inclusion, and the strength of our shared identity. Her leadership has helped bring Canadians together and elevate voices that must continue to be heard.”
The Grand Chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs Kyra Wilson added to the tributes.
“Governor General Mary Simon carried this office with strength, humility, and integrity,” said Wilson. “She understood that reconciliation is not symbolic work — it is about truth, respect, and rebuilding relationships with First Nations based on recognition of our rights, our histories, and our place in this country.
“Her leadership brought humanity to an institution that for many of our people has long represented exclusion,” Wilson said. “She leaves behind an example of leadership rooted in service, dignity, and courage.”
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