The Creation of Nunavut

Overview

Nunavut is Canada's largest and newest territory, officially created on April 1, 1999.
Formed by dividing the Northwest Territories into Nunavut and the remaining NWT.
Result of negotiations between Inuit people, Canadian government, and other stakeholders.
Represents Indigenous self-determination and rights, significant as a majority Indigenous population gained self-government.

Initiated in the late 1960s by the Inuit Tapirisat of Canada (ITC) for Inuit interests.
ITC advocated for a territory granting Inuit control over land and resources.
In 1971, Canadian government engaged in negotiations for land claims agreement.
1973: Policy enabled Indigenous land ownership disputes if demonstrated historical use and occupation.
First Inuit land claims proposal in 1976, faced delays and many proposals before federal acceptance.
Negotiations involved complex issues of powers, responsibilities, and land division.
Overlapping Métis and Inuit land claims compounded negotiations.

Significant progress toward formation occurred in the 1990s.
1990: A land-claims agreement in principle was signed.
1992: Two referenda in May and November supported territorial division and creation.
1993: Nunavut Land Claims Agreement (NCLA) settled after 20+ years of negotiation.
- Comprehensive settlement recognized Inuit self-determination.
- Ratified in November 1992, enacted in June 1993.
Nunavut Act established the territory's boundaries and government structure in 1993.
Required years for formal transition, government setup, and first election in February 1999.
Officially became a territory on April 1, 1999, with symbols reflective of Inuit identity.

Provided a platform for Inuit cultural and political rights assertion.
Enabled greater resource control and economic development based on Inuit values.
Signified recognition of Indigenous rights and diversity in Canada.

Contributors: Ozan Bayezit, Andrew Malliaros, Aidan Grossi, Qalib Syed, Kady Cisse, Christopher Gregory, Ashton Prince