Makivik to Commemorate Land Claim 40th Anniversary

10/11/2015

Makivik the Inuit Land Claims Organization in Northern Quebec will celebrate the fortieth anniversary of James Bay and Northern Quebec Land Claim Agreement signed on Nov 11, 1975.

“Our 40th anniversary on November 11, 2015 is to ensure all of us recognize and appreciate the importance of our land claim, how and why it came about, and most of all, how it shapes us today and in the generations to come,” said Makivik President Jobie Tukkiapik .

Makivik will host a celebration in Kuujjuaq on November 11 and premier a private screening of a documentary marking the occasion and the remarkable accomplishments of those who negotiated the claim and a public screening on the 12th. A similar event will be held in Montreal on Nov 30. In addition, the documentary will be shown in all Nunavik Communities in the weeks ahead, with community events planned around the screening.

“ What our young leadership, and our communities achieved forty years ago, remains no less than remarkable. Without the precedent they set, our cherished Nunavik would be a much different place as would be all of northern Canada ” said Mr.Tukkiapik. “They used every vehicle at their disposal and used them well, political negotiations, very effective public opinion and above all, the law and the Courts.”

Most of the surviving signatories to the original agreement are expected to attend the event.

The James Bay and Northern Quebec land claim agreement equipped Nunavik Inuit with rights to vast areas with rich resources and have opened unlimited opportunities for partnerships with mining companies and other business enterprises.

Mr. Tukkipik added “ I think the best way we can thank our negotiators for what they have done is take advantage of the opportunities they have given us through their hard work and vision and ensure we leave no less to our children.

For more information contact:
William Tagoona
Communications Coordinator and Media Relations
wtagoona@makivik.org
819-964-2925

Makivik is the development corporation mandated to manage the heritage funds of Inuit of Nunavik provided for in the James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement. Makivik’s role includes the administration and investment of these funds and the promotion of economic growth.

NT5