(November 16, 2021 – Rankin Inlet, Nunavut) Today, members of the Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI) Annual General Meeting passed a resolution to seek a negotiation mandate with the Government of Canada to begin the exercise of the inherent right to Inuit Self-Government.
Twenty-two years since the creation of Nunavut’s public government, Inuit expectations of a government that reflects their goals and objectives have not been realized, despite NTIs repeated efforts to work collaboratively with the Government of Nunavut. Instead, the Inuit quality of life has alarmingly declined and no real measures to promote, preserve and protect Inuit language and culture.
The Government of Nunavut (GN) resists the development of policies, programs and services which would meet the needs of Inuit, the majority population of Nunavut. Rather, the historical colonial policies, programs and services are defended or strengthened by the government’s focus on the non-Inuit minority. This sentiment is not only absurd, but also completely disregards the principles and objectives of the Nunavut Agreement.
“At NTI, we wholeheartedly understand how difficult it will be to continue to struggle under a regime that does not support us nor wants us to succeed in fulfilling the vision of a prosperous and thriving Nunavut envisioned by young, bold Inuit leaders in the 1970s. To re-build the hope and dreams that was originally envisioned for Inuit and their future generations, this conversation of self-government must begin again.” said Aluki Kotierk, President of NTI.
With the passing of the resolution, the members have directed NTI to actively pursue Inuit self-government and open a dialog with the Government of Canada to consider more viable options for Inuit to gain control over their own governance.
“We owe it to Inuit to represent their full potential ” President Kotierk stated.
For further information:
Malaya Mikijuk
Director of Communications Trainee
Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated
Tel: (867) 975-4900/Toll-free: 1-888-646-0006
www.tunngavik.com
