The Department of Culture and Heritage recently appointed nine members to the Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit Katimajiit, a committee comprising Elders who advise the territorial government on Inuit traditional knowledge and society values.
The new members are Mary Voisey of Whale Cove, Marie Anguti of Kugaaruk, Jean Simailak of Baker Lake, Ootoovak Audlakiak of Clyde River, Lew Philip of Iqaluit, Abraham Oolalak of Sanirajak, Willie Nakoolak of Coral Harbour, Miriam Aglukkaq of Gjoa Haven, and Celine Ningark of Kugaaruk.
Culture and Heritage Minister Maragret Nakashuk also thanked the outgoing members of the group for sharing their time and knowledge: Kigutikakjuk Shappa of Arctic Bay, Zeke Ejetsiak of Kinngait, Annie Tookalook of Sanikiluaq, Mary Voisey of Whale Cove, Annie Napayok of Whale Cove, Jean Simailak of Baker Lake, Marie Anguti of Kugaaruk, Makabe Nartuk of Kugaaruk, and Simon Qingnaqtuq of Taloyoak.
Nakashuk noted that the appointees represent Nunavut geographically and linguistically. Their advice is considered on matters relating to government policies, programs, services and legislation and they can be called upon by any government department.