YORKTON – The Queen Elizabeth the II Platinum Jubilee Medal Presentation was held at the Gallagher Centre's National Bank Convention Place on Jan. 27.
"The Queen Elizabeth the II Platinum Jubilee Medal is a tangible way for Saskatchewan honour Her Late Majesty for Her service to Canada, while also recognizing the significant contributions and achievements by Saskatchewan Citizens," read the event's program.
Eighty-four citizens from the area were selected to receive the honour based on their contributions and efforts with 15 of the individuals adjudicated by the City’s Civic Recognition Awards Committee.
"The public was asked to submit nominations for the medals, which were adjudicated by the City’s Civic Recognition Awards Committee. Eligible recipients were required to be Saskatchewan residents, have made a contribution to Canada, Saskatchewan, and particularly Yorkton; and had to have been alive on February 6, 2022, the 70th anniversary of Her Late Majesty’s accession to the Throne. The City of Yorkton is proud to recognize these deserving individuals with this historic commemorative medal," read an article on the City of Yorkton's website.
"The Government of Saskatchewan partnered with several organizations to ensure a wide distribution of medals across the province. Members of the Legislative Assembly were given an allocation for their constituencies. Cities received an allocation directly. For smaller municipalities, Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA), Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) and New North – Saskatchewan Association of Northern Communities administered nominations," according to the Government of Saskatchewan.
The Honourable Russ Mirasty, S.OM., M.S.M., Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan was in attendance for the event to deliver a speech to the full house of recipients and spectators.
"It is important to recognize and encourage people who help to make our province better," said Mirasty, adding, "the platinum jubilee is unprecedented and so deserves meaningful recognition."
"This is the first time in Canadian history the Royal Vocation has been commemorated with provincial medals. This medal program is an excellent way to commemorate Your Majesty's devotion to service, while at the same time celebrating the dedicated service of people like you here this afternoon," said Mirasty.
"This only the second time Saskatchewan Commemorative medals have been issued – the first being during our Centennial of 2005," said Mirasty, adding, "I am grateful to the Saskatchewan Government for recognizing the importance of the Platinum Jubilee and for supporting this project both financially and with organizational resources – it is a valuable way to acknowledge those who work to enrich our communities and whose achievements inspire us all."
"I thank each honouree for generously giving us your time, your talents, your knowledge, your experience and sharing that with those around you. Thank you for your service to your community and to Saskatchewan. You are positive role models for your neighbours, colleagues, families and friends."
"I hope that you take great pride in receiving and wearing this medal because your contributions and accomplishments make us all proud – and they do make a difference."
Photos from the event will be available on Flickr.
