Angeconeb earns Queen’s diamond jubilee medal

Garnet Angeconeb was recognized for his efforts throughout the years when he received the Queen’s diamond jubilee medal on National Aboriginal Day.
“I am tremendously moved,” said Angeconeb, through proud tears.
The suspense built as MPP Sarah Campbell announced that she had arrived in Sioux Lookout on National Aboriginal Day to present a community member with the Queen’s diamond jubilee medal, which recognizes the recipient’s tremendous contributions to their community.
“I want to thank my creator, and one courageous woman that’s been behind me the whole time, my wife Margaret,” said Angeconeb. He pointed to his granddaughter and said that the work he did to earn the medal was for her generation.
“I’m really stuck for words, and rightly so, because I think the words I want to express will show in time in terms of creating and renewing relations for everyone in this community.”
“He’s so deserving,” remarked Campbell. “Garnet has done so much. His personal strength is something that really stands out to me.”
She added that his strong desire to help people and make things better makes him an inspiration to everyone, and to her personally.
She said that the Queen’s diamond jubilee medal is an award honouring the Queen’s sixtieth year of reign since her coronation as Queen.
Chief Clifford Bull of Lac Seul First Nation said that Angeconeb was very deserving of the award.
“I was really happy and honoured to witness that great occasion for Garnet,” said Bull.
Sioux Lookout Mayor Dennis Leney said he had known Angeconeb since 1976, and that he was a well-deserved man for the award.
Angeconeb is most known for his contributions to the Sioux Lookout region as founding member of the Sioux Lookout Anti-Racism Committee, and is a lifetime member on the board.
As well, he is involved in the Sioux Lookout Coalition for Reconciliation and Healing, and holds a seat on the board of the Aboriginal Healing Foundation.
Angeconeb received the Queen’s golden jubilee medal in 2003 for his community involvement and contributions.
“I’ve been on a lot of boards over the years and that’s where I learned a lot of things that I still carry with me, my own personal education,” he said.
He hopes he has made an impact in the community to lighten the tension and ease the lives of his children and grandchildren.