The Manitoba Inuit Association (MIA) has named an interim CEO, as revealed last Friday. This decision follows a petition with over 1,200 signatures urging the non-profit to investigate claims of sexual and physical abuse against its former CEO, Nastania Mullin.
The petition is part of a broader online movement known as the #InuitMeToo campaign, where Inuit women and gender-diverse individuals in Canada are sharing accounts of alleged abuse involving Mullin and other male Inuit leaders.
Crystal Martin, the organizer of the petition, described it as a call for justice and emphasized the shift from a moment to a movement towards accountability and improvement.
Subsequently, a board member of MIA resigned, citing resistance to her proposals for an independent investigation into the allegations. Mullin has not responded to requests for comment, and the MIA has appointed an interim CEO without directly addressing the allegations against Mullin.
Joanie French, the former secretary-treasurer of MIA, resigned after expressing intentions to investigate the allegations against Mullin. French stated that her efforts to seek external legal counsel and conduct a third-party investigation were not supported within the organization.
The #InuitMeToo conversations have gained momentum, with public figures like Tanya Tagaq amplifying the voices of survivors. Tara Qunngaataq Tootoo Fotheringham, the president of the Amautiit Nunavut Inuit Women’s Association, revealed that several individuals have come forward with stories of abuse involving male Inuit leaders.
Various organizations, including Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the Qulliit Nunavut Status of Women Council, have expressed support for survivors without directly mentioning specific allegations or individuals.
Nunavut Senator Nancy Karetak-Lindell has endorsed the movement, emphasizing the need for safety, accountability, and action. She highlighted the significance of the petition within the small Inuit community and stressed the importance of conducting an independent investigation.
The recent allegations against Mullin follow a previous investigation by the Manitoba government concerning workplace behavior and financial misconduct at the MIA. While the province initially ruled against the MIA, subsequent investigations cleared the association of any wrongdoing.
For immediate safety concerns, individuals are advised to contact 911, and support services can be found through the Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada database.