Manitoba Inuit Association Fires CEO Amid Abuse Allegations

BREAKING: The Manitoba Inuit Association (MIA) has officially terminated its former CEO, Nastania Mullin, following serious abuse allegations raised by an Ottawa woman. This urgent decision comes just one week after Ruth Gustaw publicly accused Mullin of sexual assault, igniting discussions within the growing #InuitMeToo movement.

In a statement released late Friday, MIA acknowledged the concerns voiced by the community, stating, “After an intensive review, the MIA Board has made the decision to terminate Nastania Mullin.” The organization has appointed an interim chief executive officer and will launch an independent investigation into the allegations.

Gustaw, who alleges that Mullin assaulted her two decades ago in his mother’s home in Iqaluit, expressed relief at the board’s decision. “I’m glad MIA made the right decision,” she said. “It was never about spreading hate but about using my voice to tell the truth.” Her courage to come forward was bolstered by the support of many who have rallied under the #InuitMeToo banner.

Mullin’s termination follows formal complaints lodged against him by Gustaw and another unnamed woman with the RCMP and Ottawa Police Service. While the allegations remain unproven in court, the impact on the community is palpable. MIA’s statement emphasized its commitment to supporting victims of intimate partner and sexual violence, reinforcing that “MIA stands together with our Inuit women, 2LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse community members.”

The fallout from this situation has sparked a larger call for accountability within Inuit institutions. Advocate Crystal Martin, who initiated a petition that garnered over 1,300 signatures urging MIA to address the allegations, stated, “Mullin’s termination is a necessary and monumental step forward for our communities.” She emphasized that the voices of survivors must remain central to instigating real change.

As the community rallies for justice, support continues to grow. Prominent Inuit organizations, including the Amautiit Nunavut Inuit Women’s Association, have voiced their backing for the ongoing #InuitMeToo movement. President Tara Qunngaataq Tootoo Fotheringham remarked, “Change is happening because courage spoke louder than fear.”

Gustaw’s story resonates deeply within the Inuit community, as it reflects years of silence surrounding abuse. The movement aims to empower others to share their experiences and demand safer environments. The MIA’s commitment to an independent and trauma-informed investigation represents a significant step toward healing and reform.

As developments unfold, the community and observers alike are urged to stay vigilant and supportive of the ongoing fight for justice. The MIA has pledged to foster safety, respect, and healing for all impacted, ensuring that this moment leads to lasting change.

WATCH FOR: Further updates on the independent investigation and community responses as this story develops. This is a pivotal moment for the Manitoba Inuit Association and the broader Inuit community, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and reform within their institutions.