The Manitoba Inuit Association (MIA) has introduced an interim CEO, as revealed on Friday afternoon. This decision follows the circulation of a petition, signed by over 1,200 individuals, urging the non-profit organization to address allegations of sexual and physical abuse involving its former CEO, Nastania Mullin.
The petition is part of a broader online movement dubbed as the #InuitMeToo grassroots campaign, where Inuit women and gender-diverse individuals across Canada are sharing accounts of alleged abuse by Mullin and other male Inuit leaders. Crystal Martin, the organizer of the petition, emphasized that it was a call for justice and signifies a shift towards a movement rather than a mere moment of awareness.
In response to the allegations, a board member of the MIA resigned, citing resistance to her proposals for an independent investigation. Mullin has remained unresponsive to requests for comments, while the MIA, in an unsigned email, announced the appointment of an interim CEO without addressing the allegations or Mullin’s status.
Joanie French, the former secretary-treasurer of MIA, initiated efforts to investigate the allegations against Mullin but resigned during a special meeting last weekend. French expressed her disappointment that her recommendations for external legal counsel and a third-party investigation were not supported by the board, leading to her decision to step down.
The #InuitMeToo movement has gained momentum, with notable figures like Tanya Tagaq amplifying the conversations on social media platforms. Tara Qunngaataq Tootoo Fotheringham, president of Amautiit Nunavut Inuit Women’s Association, revealed receiving numerous accounts of abuse and harassment involving male Inuit leaders, including Mullin, and is assisting survivors in seeking legal support.
Various organizations, such as Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and Qulliit Nunavut Status of Women Council, have expressed solidarity with women disclosing abuse allegations. Nunavut Senator Nancy Karetak-Lindell stands alongside those calling for accountability and action, emphasizing the importance of independent investigations in addressing such serious accusations.
The recent accusations against Mullin come after previous investigations by the Manitoba government and third-party entities cleared the MIA of any wrongdoing. Despite this, the community continues to demand transparency and accountability in handling allegations of abuse within the organization.
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 911. For additional support, crisis lines and local services can be accessed through the Ending Sexual Violence Association of Canada database.