Youth join partners to renew commitment to the Nunavut Suicide Prevention Action Plan (2024-2029)

Press Release

September 10, 2025

Iqaluit, Nunavut (September 10, 2025) – Youth representatives stood alongside the partners of Inuusivut Annirnaqtut, the Government of Nunavut, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit–Embrace Life Council and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, ‘V’ Division, to renew a shared commitment to the Nunavut Suicide Prevention Action Plan (2024-2029), reaffirming that youth voices are essential in shaping the path toward healing and wellness across the territory.

In a workshop in July, partners – alongside youth representatives – acknowledged both the progress made and the challenges that remain. Continued engagement, especially with youth and communities, was emphasized as essential to success. Access to housing, wellness programs and improving community infrastructure were highlighted throughout the gathering.

The workshop marked a critical step in our collective journey to prevent suicide and promote wellness across the territory. Grounded in Inuit societal values and guided by the voices of youth, Elders, families and communities, the action plan outlines 25 key areas to address the root causes of suicide and support healing, hope and resilience.

We recognize that suicide prevention is everyone’s responsibility. The trauma of colonialism, intergenerational grief and systemic inequities continues to affect the well-being of Nunavummiut – especially Inuit youth. This plan is our path forward: one that strengthens Inuit culture, improves access to essential services, and ensures that youth are heard, supported and empowered.

Building on strengths

Partners discussed the importance of culturally-relevant messaging, social media literacy, and community-based modeling of healthy responses to distress. There is a need for increased youth representation and employment across all systems, with a focus on peer-to-peer support. There is also a need to reframe social media as a tool for wellness and positive storytelling. Agencies agreed on the importance of coordinated communication strategies and culturally responsible outreach.

Barriers such as limited resources, systemic constraints, and a culture of indifference were identified. Teachers and supervisors were identified as key accountability figures, with upcoming initiatives aimed at providing training in de-escalation and relationship restoration.

Youth voices continue to guide this work. They called for genuine involvement in leadership, dedicated positions, and inclusive spaces. The principle of “nothing about us without us” was heard.

Moving Forward

In the months ahead, the partners agree to take concrete steps to ensure youth voices shape the decisions that affect their lives, and to expand culturally grounded mental health and healing services for families and communities. This work will be supported by efforts to re-evaluate funding processes and ensure that government priorities are meaningfully aligned with the goals of the Nunavut Suicide Prevention Action Plan.

We remain united in our commitment to the Inuusivut Annirnaqtut vision: a Nunavut where every life is valued and supported. This plan is not just a document – it is a living commitment to healing, collaboration and action. We will continue to listen, adapt and work together to ensure that Inuit youth and families have the tools, spaces, and support they need to thrive.

We are united in our belief that every life in Nunavut is precious. Through this action plan, we will continue to build a territory where all Inuit children and youth can grow up in safe, healthy, and supportive communities.

Together, the Inuusivut Annirnaqtut partners move forward – with hope, with purpose and with a shared commitment to life.

Inuusivut Annirnaqtut – Our Lives Are Precious.

Contact

Charmaine Deogracias
Manager of Communications
Department of Health
867-975-5712
cdeogracias@gov.nu.ca

Ivaluarjuk Merritt
Director of Communications
Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI)
867-975-4905
IMerritt@tunngavik.com

Tooma Laisa
Communications Specialist
Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit Embrace Life Council
tlaisa@inuusiq.com

Cpl. George Henrie
RCMP, V Division, Nunavut
867-975-4404
george.henrie@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

IHT5