Since the 1970s, Inuit organizations had been negotiating with the federal government to create a territory for Inuit people living in the North of Canada. On July 9, 1993, the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement and the Nunavut Act passed and started the process of separating the Northwest Territories into two distinct territories.
On April 1, 1999, nearly 2 million square kilometres were separated from the Northwest Territories and became Nunavut. The Nunavut Land Claims agreement was the largest Aboriginal land claim settlement in Canadian history, representing a huge victory for the Inuit. In addition to this, the territory separation meant that Inuit people finally won the right to self-government in their own land.
Nunavut Day is a day of celebration of Inuit culture and to remember the hardships Inuit have overcome. Some Inuit celebrate with art, dance, games, and community events. Are you celebrating Nunavut Day? What activities are you taking part in?
1200+ was co-produced by MKO grand chief Sheila North Wilson
