Canada Apologizes to Inuit Families for Forced High Arctic Relocation

New Indian & Northern Affairs Minister John Duncan issued a formal apology to the descendants of 19 Inuit families who were forcibly relocated from Inukjuak and Pond Inlet to Grise Fiord and Resolute Bay in the High Arctic during the 1950’s.

According to the full statement:

“The Government of Canada apologizes for having relocated Inuit families and recognizes that the High Arctic Relocation resulted in extreme hardship and suffering for Inuit who were relocated. We deeply regret the mistakes and broken promises of this dark chapter of our history.”

As part of the apology, The Feds have committed to a series of commemoration projects and a $10-million trust.  Duncan has also pledged to attend each of the commemoration events, set to take place this fall.

[Image via tunngavik.com]