Mr. Speaker, I rise today, the day after International Women’s Day, to acknowledge and recognize the incredible contributions and leadership of Rebecca Kudloo, the outgoing President of Pauktuutit.
Mr. Speaker, I am honored to celebrate the dedication and tireless efforts of Ms. Kudloo in advocating for equality and access to essential services for Inuit Women.
Originally from Igloolik, Nunavut, Rebecca Kadloo has served for three terms as Pauktuutit’s President. However, Ms. Kudloo’s advocacy work started long before her time at
Pauktuutit, for over 36 years she has been promoting holistic healing approaches, advocating for mental health services and resources, and securing funding for safe shelters to support women fleeing violence.
In addition to supporting survivors of intimate partner abuse, Ms. Kudloo also worked to provide resources and help for individuals who perpetuated violence. She recognized that perpetrators of violence were often themselves survivors of abuse and intergenerational trauma.
Mr. Speaker, on February 10, 2022, while still President of Pauktuutit, Rebeca Kudloo was presented with the Women, Peace, and Security Civil Society Leadership Award for her work and achievements toward protecting and promoting the human rights of Inuit women. That award is well-deserved.
Mr. Speaker, I want to take this moment to congratulate Rebecca Kudloo for her contributions and achievement. She is truly an inspiration to our young women and girls.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.