LANGFORD – Ravi Parmar, MLA for Langford-Juan de Fuca presented the King Charles III Coronation Medal to four local citizens today during a ceremony at the Langford Legion.
“These medals offer me the opportunity to honour the remarkable contributions of four outstanding community members,” said Ravi Parmar, MLA for Langford-Juan de Fuca. “Former Chief Planes, Elder Alphonse, former Mayor Young, and former Minister Sihota embody the spirit of our community. Their work has touched countless lives, and their legacies will continue to inspire and impact our community for generations to come.”
Former T’Sou-ke Nation Chief Gordon Planes, T’Sou-ke Elder Shirley Alphonse, former Mayor of Langford Stewart Young, and retired provincial MLA and past Cabinet Minister Moe Sihota are the local recipients of this honour.
Former Chief Planes served as T’Sou-ke Chief from 2008-2024 and championed sustainability and economic development for the Nation, completing one of the largest solar energy projects in B.C. during his time and creating a lasting legacy of sustainable practices for the Nation and beyond.
Elder THE-LA-ME-YÉ Shirley Alphonse is a respected elder and spiritual leader in her community, supporting people from birth to end-of-life. She also teaches SENĆOŦEN language at local schools, and as a residential school Survivor, is dedicated to healing and cultural exchange through being a part of initiatives from local to global scales.
Former Mayor Young played a key role in transforming Langford into a fast-growing, award-winning municipality. During his tenure, he helped improve infrastructure, expand services, and support growth that has made a lasting change to the community landscape.
Retired MLA and former Cabinet Minister Sihota was the first ever Indo-Canadian elected to a Canadian Parliament. Championing policies to advance social justice and equity in B.C. during his time helped expand opportunities for others and create a more inclusive ecosystem in Canadian Politics.
They have all played a part in making the community an amazing place to live, and have built legacies that will continue for generations to come.
The Coronation Medal, a Canadian honour created to mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, was launched by Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, and recognizes those who have made significant contributions to Canada and their home province. The medal will be awarded to 30,000 deserving individuals across the country and is the first Canadian honour to mark a coronation.