Canadians see themselves a northern nation, yet few of us ever visit the North. In early June, the 10 participants in this year's Parliamentary Internship Programme had the opportunity to travel to the Arctic for a study tour. We spent a week in Nunavut, meeting with legislators, public servants and civil-society organizations.
On the First Air flight to Iqaluit, none of us knew what to expect. The picture of Nunavut painted in the rest of Canada is often one of pervasive problems - from maternal health-care difficulties to violent crime and substance abuse. Although the territory faces many challenges, we were all surprised by what we found: a profound sense of ownership, optimism and dedication to building a new and innovative democracy. This is the story that needs to be told about Nunavut.
The calm, collaborative atmosphere at the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut stands in contrast with the federal House of Commons, where we have become accustomed to the antagonism that colours debate. The territorial legislature is built on a consensus model, without political parties, is a place of genuine debate and deliberation. Question Period is characterized by substantive exchange between government ministers and the elected members.
Nunavut is also making progress on engaging women in politics. Women are not equally represented in the legislature, but the Premier, the mayor of Iqaluit and Nunavut's federal MP are all women. Together, they are often referred to as "the three powerhouses." The majority of Inuit civil servants are also women.
It is not just the political process that inspired us, however. We saw many examples of innovative policy developed in response to Nunavut's unique environment and culture.
Harmonizing traditional Inuit and modern ways of life is a constant challenge. The 2008 Inuit Language Protection Act ensures a place for Inuit languages, and by association culture, in state and private services. The government also strives to incorporate Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit, traditional knowledge, in all policies and programs. The Department of the Environment, for example, uses traditional knowledge in addition to scientific study to inform wildlife management.
The territorial justice system has followed a similar path. In many civil cases, community elders are invited to sit at the bench with judges during sentencing.
Resource development remains central to any discussion about the territory. As part of the 1993 land claims agreement, Inuit organizations own one-fifth of Nunavut's land, giving the Inuit direct control over the development of many of its resources. Although resource development is essential for future growth, Inuit impact and benefit agreements must be carried out before development can truly begin.
The government is also working to diversify the economy. Parks have been created to foster tourism and protect the natural environment, with 16 per cent of the territory under some degree of protection.
What we found most surprising, however, was the steadfast belief in Canada. Most Inuit we met stressed that they were "more than First Canadians, but Canadians first." These often repeated words of Inuit leader Jose Kusugak are inspiring, given the Inuit's tumultuous history in this country.
Although challenges remain, Canadians should recognize what has been accomplished in the 11 years since Nunavut's founding. As an amalgam of traditional and contemporary Canadian culture, Nunavut is a final plank in the project of Canadian federalism. Its innovative progress is something that all Canadians can take pride in.
The 2009-2010 parliamentary interns are Josée Madéia Charlebois, Vanessa Cotric, Janique Dubois, Anna Hopkins, Brent Jolly, Nathaniel Lowbeer-Lewis, John-Michael McColl, Allison O'Beirne, Alison Smith and Leah Stokes.