The 15th Inuit Circumpolar Council general assembly commenced in Iqaluit with the traditional lighting of the qulliq and a ceremonial song. This marks the first in-person assembly in eight years, following the 2022 virtual meeting due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Delegates from various regions, including Gunn-Britt Retter from the Saami council who traveled by ship from Nuuk, made significant efforts to attend the assembly. Among them were four delegates from the Chukotka region in eastern Russia.
Sara Olsvig, the outgoing ICC chair, emphasized the global significance of this assembly, noting the heightened interest in the Arctic, particularly in light of recent geopolitical events like President Donald Trump’s threats regarding Greenland.
Olsvig stressed the importance of Inuit empowerment in shaping their own future amidst the growing attention on the Arctic. She highlighted the unity among Inuit as a source of hope and strength in facing potential risks.
Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated president Gloria Uluqsi emphasized the value of listening and learning from each other during the assembly, underscoring the unity among Inuit from diverse regions.
The newly-elected ICC Canada president, Herb Nakimayak, reiterated the theme of unity and the significance of face-to-face interactions in sharing knowledge and stories among Inuit communities.
Iqaluit Mayor Solomon Awa highlighted the importance of collaboration among Inuit communities, especially in the face of changing Arctic conditions and increased external interest.
The general assembly agenda includes sessions focused on Indigenous rights, peace, and security, highlighting the vital discussions and decisions ahead for the Inuit community.
