Urgent Call for Safe Spaces as Nunavut Faces Rising Suicide Crisis

BREAKING: Advocates are urgently calling for more safe community spaces in Nunavut as the region grapples with soaring suicide rates, which Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami estimates to be five to 25 times higher than the Canadian average. This crisis has reached alarming levels again, prompting the Nunavut government to declare suicide an urgent issue as of June 2023.

The tragic history of suicide in this community is not just statistics. In 1998, the deaths of two teenagers in Igloolik left an indelible mark on the community. Guillaume Ittukssarjuat Saladin, who experienced this loss, founded Artcirq, a film and performing arts collective, to provide a creative outlet for youth. He emphasizes, “We’re just a space where we can dream together and take care of each other.”

The recent loss of a vital cultural space in Igloolik to a fire has compounded the community’s challenges. Saladin notes that without safe venues for art and sports, young people lack crucial outlets for expression. “If there is a community hall with great workers that can make sure that those spaces are open, are safe for young people to go there, feel good and develop themselves – that’s the key,” he stated.

In Nunavik, Willia Ningeok, president of the Unaaq Men’s Association, highlights the importance of connecting youth to their cultural roots as a preventive measure against suicide. Having lost his brother to suicide, he now leads initiatives involving traditional activities such as tool-making and outings on the land. “If we can get them early on, before they’re teenagers… keep them busy,” he insists, stressing the need for early intervention.

At the Kamatsiaqtut Nunavut Helpline, volunteers are working tirelessly to provide support to those in need. Sheila Levy, who helped launch the helpline, reflects on the critical importance of creating a safe environment for discussion. She notes that many at risk may not show obvious signs of distress. “It’s so important to allow somebody like a survivor or somebody at risk… to be able to talk about any emotions,” Levy said.

Officials and community advocates are actively seeking innovative solutions to address this ongoing crisis. They recognize that without safe spaces for youth to express themselves, the cycle of loss and grief will continue.

If you or someone you know is struggling, immediate help is available. In Nunavut, contact the Kamatsiaqtut Helpline at 1-800-265-3333 or 867-979-3333. For further assistance, the Suicide Crisis Helpline is available 24/7 by dialing 9-8-8.

This urgent situation demands immediate attention and action. As communities rally together, the emphasis on creating safe spaces for dialogue, creativity, and cultural connection is more vital than ever. Share this information to raise awareness and support those in need.