Mary Simon: podcast appearances and interviews

Mary Jeannie May Simon, born on August 21, 1947, is a Canadian civil servant, diplomat, and former broadcaster who served as the 30th governor general of Canada from 2021 to 2026. She is of Inuk descent on her mother's side, making her the first Indigenous person to hold the office. Born in Fort Severight, now known as Kangiqsualujjuaq, Quebec, Simon's early career included work as a producer and announcer for the CBC Northern Service during the 1970s. She subsequently entered public service, serving on the board of the Northern Quebec Inuit Association and participating in the Charlottetown Accord negotiations. Simon was Canada's first ambassador for circumpolar affairs, a position she held from 1994 to 2004, and was a key negotiator in the creation of the Arctic Council. Additionally, she served as the Canadian ambassador to Denmark from 1999 to 2002. Her appointment as governor general was announced on July 6, 2021, by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and was approved by Queen Elizabeth II. Her selection was notable for placing her in this viceregal office, although it faced criticism due to her not being fluent in French, one of Canada's official languages.