Opening of “Our Land, Our Art” Exhibit at the Museum of Nature

November 30, 2022

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Hello,

I would like to begin by acknowledging that we are gathered here on the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinabe people who have lived on and cared for this land for thousands of years.

I’m delighted to be here at the opening of the “Our Land, Our Art” exhibit at the Canadian Museum of Nature.

This is not just a showcase of our history.

For me, it’s pieces of home.

I was born in Nunavik, learned there what it means to be Inuit, to be part of a community.

I speak Inuktitut, our Inuit language.

And I lived the story of the Arctic.

I’m so pleased that the people of Nunavik are telling their own stories, their own history, their own truths, their own deep connection to the land, through this exhibit.

In doing so, they are shaping how others perceive them. They’re communicating and sparking conversations on matters of fairness, equality, justice and reconciliation.

This exhibit will allow Canadians to learn about Nunavik’s history through art, which is both an act of inclusion and of reconciliation.

Reconciliation is not a single act, but instead an ongoing commitment to building and rebuilding our relationship with each other and with our land. It’s opening our minds and reshaping our priorities. It’s addressing the deep wounds of the past and finding ways to heal together.

I believe this comes down to the truth: understanding the realities of others, learning about different cultures and beliefs, and stepping back to give space for people to tell their stories, without judgment or recrimination.

Artists themselves are reflective of society. They shine a light on issues that impact our communities every day. They show us the wonderful, the mythical, the mundane. The challenges and the beauty of life.

They’re connecting us through art; bridging matters of time, language, culture and borders.

I want to thank all the artists, the Canadian Museum of Nature and the Avataq Cultural Institute for creating such a meaningful exhibit.

I want to thank all the artists, the Canadian Museum of Nature and the Avataq Cultural Institute for creating such a meaningful exhibit.

Thank you for giving this space for the people of Nunavik to share their story and history.