COLUMN: Report from the Legislature – The future is in good hands

This month’s report from the legislature comes as kids are finished school, crops are growing, and celebrations have started. As summer settles into our beautiful corner of the province, there is much to be proud of and even more to celebrate here in Southeast Manitoba. I want to take a moment to recognize two truly special occasions that speak to the heart of our communities, the incredible accomplishments of our high school graduates and the celebration of Canada Day throughout the region.

Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the honour of attending several graduation ceremonies across La Verendrye, and I can say with great confidence, our future is in good hands. Whether it was in Vita, Grunthal, La Broquerie, Sprague, or St Pierre, the pride radiating from these young graduates, their families, and our schools was unmistakable. These students have demonstrated not just academic achievement, but resilience, leadership, and compassion. Many of them faced unprecedented challenges in recent years, navigating disruptions to their learning, extracurriculars, and social lives, and yet they emerged stronger, more adaptable, and ready to take on the world.

What struck me most was the diversity of dreams and ambitions among these grads. Some are heading off to post-secondary studies, others to trades, agriculture, business ventures, or to serve their communities right here at home. They are musicians, athletes, volunteers, entrepreneurs, and above all, they are thoughtful, driven citizens. These young people reflect the very best of rural Manitoba, and I couldn’t be prouder to represent them at the Manitoba Legislature.

To every graduate in La Verendrye: Congratulations! You’ve worked hard, you’ve grown, and you’ve already made your families and communities proud. The path ahead may not always be straight or easy, but your roots here in Southeast Manitoba will always serve you well. Keep striving, stay humble, and never forget where you came from.

While graduation marks a milestone for many, July 1 gives all of us reason to pause and appreciate what it means to live in this great country. Canada Day in our region is something truly special. From fireworks in our small towns to family picnics, parades, and community gatherings, it’s a day when we come together not only to celebrate our freedoms, but to reflect on our shared identity as Canadians.

We are privileged to live in a country that values peace, diversity, and opportunity. All this in a region where neighbour helps neighbour, where heritage and tradition are respected, and where our communities are growing and thriving. It’s not hard to feel proud of our country when you live in a place like Southeast Manitoba.

As we wave the red and white, sing O Canada, and gather with family and friends this Canada Day, lets remember how fortunate we are. Yes, our country is not without its challenges, but there is no doubt in my mind that Canada remains the greatest country in the world and there is no better place to call home than right here in our corner or it.

Looking ahead to the rest of the summer, I’m excited to hit the road and connect with even more of you at the many parades, fairs, festivals and community events taking place across the region. These celebrations are more than just fun; they’re the beating heart of our communities, places where stories are shared, friendships are strengthened, and local pride shines bright.

Whether you’re hosting an event or simply attending as a family, I look forward to shaking hands, hearing your concerns, celebrating your successes, and enjoying the best of what rural Manitoba has to offer.

Happy Canada Day to you and your families, and congratulations again to our 2025 graduates. Let’s celebrate together, with pride, with purpose, and with gratitude. As always don’t hesitate to reach out at info@konradnarth.ca or stop by my office on Main Street in Grunthal.