PRESS RELEASE
Kuujjuaq, Nunavik – May 7, 2025 – Makivvik expresses its deepest condolences to the family and community of Kangiqsualujjuaq following the latest tragic police shooting that took place on May 7, 2025. In the last six months, this marks the second shooting in Nunavik resulting in death. Makivvik stands firmly with the families affected and the entire community in this moment of profound grief.
This devastating incident is part of an alarming and intolerable pattern of apparent excessive use of force against Inuit and dangerous police responses in Nunavik communities. It reflects a systemic failure within the policing system to implement prevention, de-escalation, and cultural understanding.
“This latest tragedy is not isolated: it reflects a systemic failure in the way policing is delivered in Nunavik,” said Makivvik President Pita Aatami. “Despite repeated warnings, commitments, and investigations, police interventions continue to fail our communities. We condemn this fatality, and we demand immediate and measurable accountability.”
Makivvik is calling for immediate and exceptional measures. A full, independent investigation must take place, but this cannot be used as an excuse to delay action. This crisis demands substantial structural change in the way policing is delivered across Nunavik. We cannot wait for another report while more lives are put at risk.
Makivvik also demands the immediate overhaul of police training and intervention protocols, the rapid expansion of mental health and community support services, and the acceleration of long-overdue reforms to the policing system, including the establishment of Inuit-controlled and Inuit-led oversight mechanisms. Makivvik will intervene as necessary to ensure that these changes are not delayed or diluted.
Makivvik continues to support the Kativik Regional Government (KRG) to continue exercising strong and active leadership as part of this urgent effort.
Since the fatal police shooting in Salluit in November 2024, Makivvik has worked with the KRG to implement the Nunavik Public Safety Committee, a joint body tasked with reforming policing practices, improving accountability, and ensuring regular engagement with community leadership across Nunavik. The committee’s mandate includes reviewing use-of-force policies, advancing Inuit-led oversight, and coordinating with communities directly impacted by police violence.
“How many more families must bury their loved ones before this province understands that policing in Nunavik is broken? We are beyond shock,” said Pita Aatami. “We are outraged. Inuit cannot continue to be treated as targets. This cannot be normalized, and Makivvik will not allow it to be.”
Makivvik continues to stand in solidarity with the families and communities affected and reaffirms its commitment to achieving a policing system that reflects the values, culture, and safety priorities of Inuit communities.
– 30 –
Contact:
Carson Tagoona
Director of Communications
Makivvik
ctagoona@makivvik.ca
www.makivvik.ca
Makivvik is the land claims organization mandated to manage the heritage funds of the Inuit of Nunavik provided for under the James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement. Makivvik’s role includes the administration and investment of these funds and the promotion of economic growth by providing assistance for the creation of Inuit-operated businesses in Nunavik. Makivvik promotes the preservation of Inuit culture and language as well as the health, welfare, relief of poverty, and education of Inuit in the communities.