The Manitoba Inuit Association (MIA) has named an interim CEO, following a petition signed by over 1,200 individuals urging the organization to investigate allegations of sexual and physical abuse against its former CEO, Nastania Mullin. This move comes amidst a growing online movement dubbed #InuitMeToo, where Inuit women and gender-diverse individuals across Canada are sharing stories of alleged abuse involving Mullin and other male Inuit leaders.
Crystal Martin, the organizer of the petition, described it as a call for justice and emphasized the shift from a moment to a movement towards accountability and improvement. The MIA board saw a resignation from a member who proposed an independent investigation but faced resistance within the organization.
Mullin did not respond to requests for comment, and the MIA chose not to address questions regarding the allegations against him directly. Despite efforts to reach Mullin and board members for their responses, no confirmations have been obtained concerning Mullin’s status or the identity of the interim CEO.
Joanie French, the former secretary-treasurer of MIA, initiated a fact-finding mission in response to survivor stories shared on social media. However, she resigned after her calls for external legal counsel and a third-party investigation were not supported by the board. French forwarded specific allegations to relevant authorities before stepping down due to the perceived failure to protect Inuit women, staff, and community members.
The #InuitMeToo conversation gained momentum with support from figures like Tanya Tagaq and Tara Qunngaataq Tootoo Fotheringham, who are advocating for survivors and facilitating legal support initiatives. Various organizations, including Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the Qulliit Nunavut Status of Women Council, have expressed solidarity with those disclosing abuse.
Nunavut Senator Nancy Karetak-Lindell has also voiced support for the movement, emphasizing the need for accountability and independent investigations within the Inuit community. The recent allegations against Mullin follow a previous investigation by the Manitoba government, where the MIA was cleared of any wrongdoing after appeals and third-party scrutiny.
Amidst these developments, efforts are underway to provide support to survivors and ensure that voices are heard within the Inuit community to address issues of abuse and harassment constructively.