PRESS RELEASE
November 5, 2024, Kuujjuaq, Nunavik – Makivvik expresses its profound condolences to the Papigatuk family and the entire community of Salluit in the wake of the tragic incident involving members of the Nunavik Police Service, which resulted in the death of Joshua Papigatuk and the severe injury of his twin brother, Garnet Papigatuk. We stand with the Papigatuk family, their loved ones, and the entire community during this extremely painful time.
Makivvik strongly condemns the actions taken by police that led to this tragic outcome. This incident raises serious concerns about the conduct of law enforcement and underscores the critical, urgent need for improved training and a strengthened relationship between police and our communities. Effective policing in Nunavik must be grounded in an understanding of the unique cultural, social, and historical contexts of our communities to ensure respectful, safe, and appropriate interactions with community members.
“This tragedy is a painful reminder that policing in Nunavik needs significant reform to truly serve and protect our people,” said Makivvik President Pita Aatami. “Non-lethal de-escalation methods must become standard practice, and there must be a stronger, more respectful connection between police and our communities. When police enter our communities, they should be here to protect us—not to cause harm. Makivvik will stand firm in demanding accountability and advocating for the interests of Inuit. Above all, we plan to demand an immediate increase in mental health resources for Salluit to help our people cope and process this deeply traumatic experience.” Pita Aatami, Makivvik President
We are committed to supporting the independent investigation launched by Quebec’s Bureau des enquêtes indépendantes (BEI) to ensure that all facts come to light and that justice is served. Makivvik pledges its full cooperation with the investigation and will actively defend the rights of the Papigatuk family throughout this process. We will also make sure that all Inuit from Salluit be given a chance to share their concerns about community policing.
Furthermore, Makivvik is calling for an immediate increase in mental health support services for the residents of Salluit and all Nunavik communities. The traumatic impacts extend far beyond those immediately involved, affecting individuals across the region who have been deeply shaken by this event. Addressing these collateral impacts and the ongoing need for mental health support in Nunavik must be a priority to help our communities process this tragedy and promote healing.
On policing, Makivvik will take decisive action to ensure greater oversight and accountability in policing across Nunavik. Makivvik will play a more direct role and seek greater involvement in overseeing police operations to ensure they align with the needs of our communities. We also believe that the Kativik Regional Government (KRG) must take a more active role in determining how the police force operates. To this end, upon conclusions of the municipal and regional council elections, Makivvik intends to ask the Regional Council to prioritize and review police protocols.
Makivvik will continue to closely follow the progress of this investigation, ensuring it remains fair and just, and will intervene as necessary once the findings are released.
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Contact:
Carson Tagoona
Director of Communications
Makivvik
ctagoona@makivvik.ca
www.makivvik.ca
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