Premier Savikataaq pays tribute to the Ahiarmiut relocatees

Premier Joe Savikataaq today released the following statement:

“After a long, painful journey to an apology, today we begin to heal. The forced relocation of the Ahiarmiut has been a shared trauma for many families, and has impacted generations in our communities.

I thank Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, the Honourable Carolyn Bennett for being here to deliver this apology on behalf of the federal government. I also want to recognize David Serkoak, president of the Ahiarmiut Relocation Society, for his tireless work and dedication over the last 25 years. It’s been a long road to finally receive the recognition and expression of regret you deserve.

Being from Arviat, I have seen firsthand the pain and intergenerational impacts of this forced relocation. Now, after 70 years, it feels like the path to recovery can finally start.”