KUUJJUAQ, September 25, 2025 – On Friday, September 19th, members of the community of Kuujjuaq alongside Makivvik’s Corporate Secretary Alicia Aragutak and Treasurer George Berthe came together for the Northern Affiliation Ceremony of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Frédérick Rolette, whose crewhad travelled from Halifax, Nova Scotia, to attend this event.
For Makivvik, this occasion marks an important step in working towards mutual understanding and respect between the people of Nunavik and the Royal Canadian Navy.Alongside HMCS Frédérick Rolette, five other Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessels are to be affiliated with Northern communities; going forward, the Navy hopes to work with community members, local leaders, and youth groups to build relationships and create opportunities for learning and mutual exchange. During last Friday’s ceremony in Kuujjuaq, which included a Qullik lighting and cultural performance by several community members, gifts were exchanged between Makivvik and the ship’s Commander Jolene Lisi to underline the importance of this partnership.
Reflecting upon the significance of HMCS Frédérick Rolette’s new affiliation with Nunavik, Makivvik’s President Pita Aatami remarked that “this collaboration has been aligned with our efforts to work with governments and equitable partners towards reconciliation and respect in our ancestral environment. We have much to exchange on and I look forward to continuing this collaboration with the Royal Canadian Navy.” Corporate Secretary Alicia Aragutak expressed similar thoughts, emphasizing the potential impact of this collaboration on members of Nunavik’s communities: “Building a relationship with the Royal Canadian Navy is a positive step towards respect, understanding, and trust. We at Makivvik look forward to growing this connection, and witnessing the positive impacts it will bring for Nunavimmiut.”
From National Defence:
“Canada’s Arctic waters are vital to our nation and play an increasingly important role in our sovereignty. We take great pride in linking each new Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel with Northern regions, building meaningful relationships with communities that shape our identity, and strengthening our readiness to operate in the Arctic.”
- The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence
“Connecting with communities in Canada’s North is a privilege, and a responsibility that means a great deal to the Royal Canadian Navy. Canada’s North is integral to the security and sovereignty of the country, and today’s ceremony is a reaffirmation of our commitment to partnership, respect, and shared stewardship of Canada’s North.”
- Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, Commander Royal Canadian Navy
“We are privileged to have the opportunity to connect with Nunavik, and to forge ties that last well into the future. Through this relationship, we deepen our understanding of the Arctic, strengthen our operational readiness, and honour the enduring connection between the Royal Canadian Navy.”
- Commander Jolene Lisi, Commanding Officer, HMCS Frédérick Rolette
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Contact:
Katharine Morrill
Director of Communications, Makivvik
20250925 – EN – NAVY AFFILIATION
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.