Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations Delivers Apology to Nunavik Inuit for Canada’s Role in the Killing of Qimmiit (Sled Dogs)
November 23, 2024
Ottawa, ON – Today, the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, the Honourable Marc Miller, delivered a formal apology to the Nunavik Inuit for Canada’s role in the killing of qimmiit (sled dogs) during the mid-20th century.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I offer a heartfelt apology to the Nunavik Inuit for the profound loss and suffering caused by the killing of your sled dogs,” said Minister Miller. “This was a tragic and senseless act that violated your cultural practices and traditions.”
Between 1950 and 1970, the Canadian government implemented a sled dog culling program in the Arctic, primarily in the Nunavik region of northern Quebec. The program was part of a broader effort to modernize Inuit communities and transition them to permanent settlements.
As part of the program, approximately 20,000 sled dogs were killed by government officials. The dogs were considered a liability for the government’s resettlement efforts, as they were seen as a hindrance to the transition to a sedentary lifestyle.
The killing of the sled dogs had a devastating impact on Nunavik Inuit communities. Qimmiit were not only essential for transportation, hunting, and other traditional activities, but they also held deep cultural and spiritual significance.
“The loss of our dogs was a devastating blow to our way of life,” said Minnie Grey, President of the Makivik Corporation, which represents the Nunavik Inuit. “It was a cruel and unnecessary act that tore apart our communities.”
Minister Miller acknowledged the profound impact the dog cull had on Nunavik Inuit, and expressed his deep regret for the government’s actions.
“We recognize that the killing of qimmiit was a violation of your human rights and a betrayal of trust,” said Minister Miller. “We are committed to working with you to rebuild our relationship and to create a future that respects and honors your culture.”
As part of the apology, the Government of Canada announced several measures to support Nunavik Inuit in healing from the trauma of the dog cull, including:
- Establishing a compensation program for affected individuals
- Funding for community-based healing and reconciliation initiatives
- Support for cultural revitalization and language preservation
The Nunavik Inuit welcomed the apology and the government’s commitment to reconciliation.
“This apology is a step in the right direction,” said Grey. “It shows that the government is finally acknowledging the harm that was done to our people.”
The Government of Canada’s apology for the killing of qimmiit is a significant milestone in the ongoing process of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is a testament to the government’s commitment to addressing the historical wrongs that have been committed and to working towards a more just and equitable future.
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