The 15th Inuit Circumpolar Council general assembly commenced in Iqaluit with the traditional lighting of the qulliq and a musical performance. This assembly marks the first in-person gathering in eight years, as the 2022 meeting was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Among the attendees was Gunn-Britt Retter from the Saami council, who traveled to Iqaluit by ship, enduring a 12-day journey from Nuuk. Delegates from the Chukotka region in Russia also made the long trip to participate in the assembly.
Sara Olsvig, the outgoing ICC chair, emphasized the global significance of the assembly, noting the increased interest in the Arctic, particularly in light of U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats regarding Greenland.
Olsvig stressed the importance of Inuit setting their own agenda in their homelands amidst the Arctic’s growing attention, citing the need for unity among Inuit communities as a source of hope.
The opening ceremony highlighted the theme of unity, with Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated president Gloria Uluqsi emphasizing the opportunity for mutual learning and understanding among the diverse Inuit regions present.
Newly-elected ICC Canada president Herb Nakimayak echoed the call for unity and emphasized the value of face-to-face meetings for knowledge sharing and showcasing the unity of Inuit communities to the world.
Iqaluit Mayor Solomon Awa underscored the strength of Inuit collaboration in the face of Arctic changes and external scrutiny, emphasizing the importance of collective action. The upcoming sessions of the general assembly will focus on Indigenous rights, peace, and security.