
Mayor statement for Canada Day
The City of Iqaluit is asking Iqalummiut to demonstrate their commitment to reconciliation by reflecting on the legacy of residential schools this Canada Day. Statement from Mayor Kenny Bell:
“I encourage all Iqalummuit to take time to support Inuit, First Nations and Metis peoples and honour the lives of children who are forever lost, those who survived residential schools, and those whose families continue to mourn this July 1st.
For non-Indigenous people, let us use this day to reflect on the horrors from our past and create space for grieving. Instead of wearing red for Canada, Iqalummuit may wish to wear orange, or display orange lights on their homes or in their windows. This is also a time to forgo any celebratory firework displays, as it is not a time to celebrate.
Nearing the end of this pandemic and with a new reckoning with our history, let's move forward together to build a stronger country where Indigenous peoples are at the forefront. Let's work together to make Nunavut and Canada a place that we can all be proud to call home.”
We encourage people to reach out if they need more information and support:
Kamatsiaqtut Help Line is open 24 hours a day: 1-800-265-3333
Indian Residential School Crisis Line: 1-866-925-4419
First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness is open 24 hours a day: 1-855-242-3310
Canadian Mental Health Association is open 24 hours a day: 780-482-4357 (HELP)
Media contact:
Lisa Milosavljevic
Communications and Customer Service Manager
L.Milosavljevic@iqaluit.ca | 867-979-5607