Premier P.J. Akeeagok shared the following statement in response to the Government of Canada’s apology to Inuit families for Dundas Harbour relocations delivered today by Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada Minister Gary Anandasangaree in Arctic Bay, Nunavut:
“Forced relocations of Inuit in the name of Canadian sovereignty are a tragic part of Nunavut’s past. The legacy of these actions has resulted in intergenerational trauma and lasting mistrust between Canada and Inuit populations.
I want to commend the Dundas Harbour Relocation Society for their relentless advocacy in this regard and extend my thoughts to the families and survivors of the Dundas Harbour relocations.
In 1934, Aiyow, her sons Kigutak, Shappa, Qavavauq, Napassikallak and daughter Etillui were relocated from Kinngait to Dundas Harbour (Tallirutiit) on Devon Island, over 1,000 kilometers away. Despite promises of return in two years, the family was relocated three more times to Arctic Bay, Fort Ross and Spence Bay.
While many of the relocated individuals are no longer alive, today’s apology will nevertheless be an important step towards healing and reconciliation.
I want to encourage all Canadians to remember the sacrifices made by Inuit in the name of Arctic sovereignty. Teaching our children the truths about our country’s past is an important step towards true healing and reconciliation for our country.
Once again, I want to extend my gratitude to all the individuals who fought for decades to achieve this historic apology – your strength, resilience and dedication to this cause will be remembered forever.”