NunatuKavut Community Council commends Canada’s Premiers for Indigenous Inclusivity
HAPPY VALLEY-GOOSE BAY, LABRADOR, July 10, 2023 – The NunatuKavut Community Council (NCC) today issued the following statement commending Canada’s Premiers for their approach to Indigenous Inclusivity and need for all levels of government to work together:
“NunatuKavut is the traditional territory of Inuit from south and central Labrador. Our priorities, needs and concerns are similar to that of other Inuit and other Indigenous groups. Indigenous peoples deserve national leadership that does not pout and squabble over who has a seat at the table. True reconciliation demands that everyone has a voice and that includes NunatuKavut Inuit.
We must foster unity to tackle the pressing issues that our peoples are facing. Climate change, protection of our people, lands and resources, health care, water insecurity, housing and affordability, are very real challenges that impact NunatuKavut Inuit and many Canadians. The challenges are daunting. And like never before, NunatuKavut Inuit understand how vital we are to ensuring that solutions are put forward that align with our values and priorities.
The Inuit region of NunatuKavut remains a nationally significant energy powerhouse through the Churchill River and area, and has an abundance of natural resources such as fish, wildlife, and critical minerals. And it goes to follow that NunatuKavut Inuit will be at the forefront in realizing these opportunities.
We believe that all levels of Government and the private sector are beginning to understand and value Indigenous knowledge, perspectives and rights. This means that inclusivity and diversity must be respected and upheld. As caretakers of this ancient land, NunatuKavut Inuit have spent generations surviving and thriving on our lands, ice and waters. We know the priorities and concerns of our people, and work hard to improve their health and well-being.
The Council of the Federation meeting with Indigenous leaders is an important gathering. This is a time to come together and learn from each other for the betterment of our lands and waters, our peoples, and all Canadians. For this to happen everyone must be at the table. The time for illitāk (inclusion) and action is now.”
To learn more about NCC and NunatuKavut Inuit, please check out our Story Map page which helps tell our story. Please also join in the conversation at facebook.com/nunatuKavut and Twitter @nunatuKavut.
Media Contact
Kelly Broomfield
Chief of Communications
T. 709-280-5965
E. communications@nunatukavut.ca