A group of young voters in Nunavut are eager for the upcoming government to address critical issues in the region. The Nunavut election is set for Oct. 27, and the youth demographic could wield significant influence on the election results. In 2020, nearly half of Nunavut’s population fell between 15 and 24 years old. However, data from Elections Nunavut reveals a notable gap in voter registration among Nunavummiut under 30.
Delaney Drachenberg, aged 25, is advocating for the next group of MLAs to take more proactive steps in tackling mental health and suicide concerns within the LGBTQ+ community in Nunavut. Drachenberg emphasized the potential correlation between gender or sexual identity crises and suicide rates. A study from 2017 indicated that two-thirds of transgender youth between 14 and 18 in Canada had contemplated suicide seriously in the past year.
Recently, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. and the territorial government renewed a declaration of a suicide crisis. Mumilaaq Qaqqaq, who previously served as Nunavut’s MP, stressed the urgent need for accessible counseling, on-the-land programs, and tailored mental health services. Qaqqaq emphasized the critical importance of supporting leaders who prioritize transparency and genuine commitment to community welfare.
The 2024-2029 suicide prevention action plan for the territory recommends the establishment of a territorial mental health committee. Drachenberg hopes that the incoming government will adopt this recommendation and ensure diverse representation, including at least one person who is both trans and Inuk, on the committee.
In a separate development, discussions at the Nunavut Legislature concerning the inclusion of a non-binary option on birth certificates shed light on the need for greater education and acceptance. Kylie Angutimarik, a 22-year-old who identifies as bisexual, called for enhanced societal acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals, alongside improved access to housing and affordable food, emphasizing their direct relationship with mental well-being.
Jennifer Kilabuk, a member of the Nunavut Youth Climate Change Advisory Committee, urged the next government to integrate climate change considerations across all policy development areas. Kilabuk stressed the importance of breaking down silos and incorporating climate change into departmental mandates. Additionally, she highlighted the necessity of increased involvement of Indigenous women in climate change discussions at the territorial level.
Many individuals, including Angutimarik, are optimistic about the upcoming election, envisioning a future where Inuit communities can thrive rather than merely survive. Angutimarik emphasized that by providing the essential resources for a good life, Nunavut has the potential to become an even more beautiful place for its residents.