Inuit leader Mary Simon named Canada's first Indigenous governor general

• The role of the governor general is to act as the Queen's representative in Canada.

The big picture: Simon is a past president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, the national Inuit organization, and has led a decades-long career advocating for Indigenous rights.

• Simon also served as the first Canadian ambassador for circumpolar affairs where she helped strengthen the ties between the people of the Arctic regions nationally and internationally.

What they're saying: "Ms. Simon has dedicated her life to advancing social, economic, and human rights issues for Canadian Inuit and Indigenous peoples, and I am confident that she will serve Canadians and promote our shared values with dedication and integrity," Trudeau said in a statement.

• "I can confidently say that my appointment is a historic and inspirational moment for Canada and an important step forward on the long path towards reconciliation," Simon said, via CBC.