FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OTTAWA –
Pauktuutit recognizes that Inuit women face complex issues, including barriers to their full participation in a healthy and harassment-free workplace.
We have tirelessly advocated for Inuit-specific prevention, healing, and treatment services for victim/survivors of abuse, as well as offenders, in addition to urging governments and policymakers to do more to prevent, identify and respond appropriately to violence and abuse.
President Rebecca Kudloo said, “I have personally worked on cases of abuse by clergy in my own community. Violence and abuse should never be tolerated, at any level of society. It’s not only at the leadership level; it is everywhere.”
We are actively involved with the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls to ensure that the priorities and voices of Inuit women and families are included and supported. We have also developed the Engaging Men and Boys in Ending Violence Against Women and Girls project. This project aims to create and enhance tools and resources that support the health and wellbeing of Inuit men and boys in an effort to reduce gender-based violence.
Pauktuutit stands with victim/survivors of sexual harassment and sexual violence and those who speak out against it. We recognize the courage and strength it takes for individuals to talk about sexual harassment and sexual violence. We continue to work towards ensuring that all Inuit survivors have access to high-quality, culturally-safe and responsive programs and services.
President Kudloo concluded, “Violence against women and girls is not just a woman’s issue: it is everyone’s issue and affects entire communities.”
In the event that you or someone you know are triggered by these issues, a list of support numbers can be found at: https://pauktuutit.ca/abuse-prevention/children-and-youth/believe-ask-connect/
To request an interview, please contact Lindsey Bacigal by phone at 613-238-3977 ext. 248 or by e-mail at lbacigal@pauktuutit.ca