Makivvik offers its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Sammy Unatweenuk, who passed away last spring. His contributions to Inuit governance and land stewardship were formally acknowledged at Makivvik’s Annual General Meeting in Inukjuak by President Pita Aatami, who praised Sammy’s enduring commitment and leadership.
Sammy was originally from the settlement of Killiniq and later lived in Kangiqsualujjuaq. In his public service he took on roles including Deputy Mayor of Kangiqsualujjuaq and President of the Epigituk Landholding Corporation. He represented his community on various boards, working to ensure that Inuit voices were heard in decision-making about land, governance and rights.
Sammy served on the board of the Torngat Mountains National Park Cooperative Management Board (CMB), a body that oversees management of the park in partnership with Inuit of Nunavik and Nunatsiavut together with Parks Canada. The CMB website lists Sammy as a member appointed by Parks Canada, noting his deep knowledge of the Killiniq area and the northern part of the park where he and his family hunted and lived in camp settings. He was a strong supporter of wildlife research (especially caribou), archaeology, and better Inuit access to the park, including safe-shelter ideas for northern areas.
Throughout his life, Sammy worked to ensure that the history of Killiniq, including its relocation and the challenges the community faced, was not forgotten. He was featured in a recent film produced by Makivvik, documenting the history of Killiniq, particularly the forced relocation of Inuit families by the government in the 1970s.
Sammy Unatweenuk leaves behind a record of service to his community, to the land, and to the next generation of Inuit. His leadership will not be forgotten and his work on governance and land use, as well as his sharing of traditional knowledge stands as an example for others.
Makivvik honours his memory and thanks him for his years of dedication.
