PRESS RELEASE
January 8, 2020 – Kuujjuaq, Nunavik – Makivvik President Charlie Watt congratulates the three Inuit nominated on December 28th, 2019 by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada to the Order of Canada. 120 new appointments were announced on that day. They will be inducted during ceremonies to be held later in 2020.
“We congratulate our former Makivvik President Pita Aatami who is now President of Air Inuit,” said Charlie Watt. “ Pita will become a Member of the Order of Canada for his contributions to the economic, social and political development of Nunavik. We know he has done tremendous work for Inuit in Nunavik over the decades. As President of Air Inuit, he continues to make important contributions to the development of our region. We salute you Pita for all the work you have done for the Nunavik Region..”
Makivvik is also extremely proud John Amagoalik from Iqaluit, and Johnny Issaluk of Chesterfield Inlet Nunavut have also been named to the Order.
Created in 1967, the Order of Canada is one of Canada’s highest honours. Presented by the governor general, the Order honours people whose service shapes our society, whose innovations ignite our imaginations, and whose compassion unites our communities. The striking, six-point white enamel pin given to Order of Canada recipients symbolizes our northern heritage and our diversity.
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Contact:
William Tagoona
Makivvik
Tel. 819-964-2925
wtagoona@makivik.org
www.makivik.org
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.