Submitted by the Qarjuit Youth Council
From January 27 to 29, 2025, Inukjuak came alive with the energy of young Inuit leaders ready to dive into a topic that hits close to home— self-determination and land rights. The Nunavik Treaty Self-Determination Simulation brought together youth from across the region to learn, collaborate, and imagine the future of Inuit governance.
Organized by the Qarjuit Youth Council, Makivvik, and the Gordon Foundation, the event focused on the land regime—a complex but crucial part of Inuit self-determination. It was more than just workshops and meetings—it was about reclaiming knowledge, amplifying voices, and empowering youth to lead.
A Powerful Start
The event began with an inspiring opening prayer led by Elder Louisa Cookie-Brown, grounding everyone in Inuit values and the spirit of self-determination. Following this powerful moment, the youth heard from Peter Inukpuk, one of the original signatories of the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement (JBNQA) and the current mayor of Inukjuak. His reflections on the negotiation process that shaped the JBNQA gave youth a firsthand look into the history of treaty-making in Nunavik.
Learning the Ropes
Over three days, participants took part in interactive workshops and training sessions with experienced advisors, who guided them through real-world negotiation tactics. These sessions helped youth understand how to think critically, communicate strategically, and navigate complex political conversations—skills that are essential for the next generation of Inuit leaders.
Together, they explored key topics like:
• The deep meaning of land to Inuit identity
• The ongoing impacts of colonization
• The legal and cultural intricacies of the JBNQA
Land, Climate & Responsibility
A powerful theme emerged: our land is our future. Youth spoke openly about how climate change, resource extraction, and development are affecting their communities. They called for stronger Inuit-led environmental stewardship and emphasized the need to balance economic interests with respect for the land and future generations.
The Negotiation Simulation
The highlight of the event was the mock negotiation simulation—a dynamic, role-play scenario between representatives of the Quebec government and the Inuit. Youth were divided into teams and, with the guidance of advisors, stepped into the roles of negotiators on both sides.
They applied their newly learned skills to debate, strategize, and collaborate—mimicking real treaty negotiations and experiencing the pressure and complexity of defending their communities’ rights.
Before the simulation began, youth led a cultural welcome through traditional throat singing and drum dancing, grounding the exercise in Inuit values and respect for the land. While the simulation didn’t end with a final agreement, it offered something just as valuable: a real sense of what’s at stake—and what it takes—to move self-determination forward.
Looking Back—and Ahead
As the event wrapped up, participants gathered in a closing circle to reflect on what they had learned. Many shared feelings of empowerment, connection, and excitement for the future. They also offered suggestions for the next event—like including more outdoor time to strengthen the connection between land and learning.
The Journey Continues
This simulation was just the beginning. The Qarjuit Youth Council is already planning the next event, focused on a new theme aligned with Nunavik’s long-term goals for self-determination.
To every young Inuit voice out there: we see you, we hear you, and your time is now. Stay involved. Stay proud. The future is in your hands. More is coming—stay tuned!
