Nunavut Celebrates its First 10 Years
Submitted by Mary Simon on Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Happy Anniversary, Nunavut!
Looking back on Nunavut’s accomplishments over the past 10 years I cannot help but reflect on the events that led to the historic day of April 1, 1999.
The map of Canada changed for the first time since 1949 when Newfoundland joined confederation. It was a moment for Inuit to celebrate a substantial accomplishment in our political, social, and economic development within Canada.
I think of those who helped us get to Nunavut. All those who dedicated their hearts and minds to the creation of Nunavut, to say nothing of the great sacrifices they and their families gave to this critical effort over many years.
I salute, too, those in the Government of Nunavut who have been the leaders and stewards of this land and people since that day in 1999.
And I look to the future of Nunavut to realize the promise of the renewing and thriving of our culture, our communities, and our people. Altogether, with Nunavut, Inuit call it Inuit Nunangat.
While my heart knows there is so much more for us to accomplish we can save those thoughts for another day, and be glad and celebrate where we have come from, and where we are now.
So it is with pride in our history, with joy for our accomplishment, and with hope for our future, that I congratulate all of our leaders over these years for the creation of Nunavut, and convey our deepest gratitude for all the work they devoted to bringing us here. Nakurmiik.
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It is important for Nunavut's
It is important for Nunavut's social and economic development that the Government of Nunavut increase its capacity and competence.
Nunavummiut deserve better government and in the first 10 years, a lot has been learned but a lot more needs to be done.
If local Nunavut Inuit businesses are to grow and develop, then the GN needs to follow the land claims agreement including Article 24 and that means implementing the NNI Policy.
Leading organizations like Nunasi should be setting the example for good business practices in Nunavut, including following the NNI Policy both in spirit and letter. That means if Nunasi's business interests are not 51% owned by local Nunavut, then they should not be treated as local Nunavut businesses consistent with the intent of the Policy. These business leaders should be publicly expressing support for the NNI Policy and the development of local Nunavut Inuit businesses.
Right now, local Nunavut Inuit businesses are struggling while companies from outside Nunavut are getting work and the GN is treating them like they are local, when they are not. This is wrong. It does not matter who their shareholders are. If they are not 51% locally owned, they are not Nunavut.
Hopefully Inuit leaders, incluidng ITK, will encourage better government for Nunavut, and better government begins with fair and transparent practices including on the NNI Policy.