A ceremony commemorating the culture and historical significance of the NunatuKavut Inuit was held today at the Confederation Building in St. John’s to better reflect the culture and heritage of Indigenous People in this province.
The Honourable John Hogan, KC, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, together with the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Agriculture and Minister of Labrador Affairs, and the Honourable Dr. Scott Reid, Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation and Minister for Environment and Climate Change, unveiled artwork with representatives of the NunatuKavut Community Council (NCC) including President Todd Russell and Jeanette Russell, Governing Councillor for Area 7 (All of Canada outside of NunatuKavut).
An original piece of art was unveiled, which illustrates the spirit of citizens in NunatuKavut. Following a formal process, NCC selected artist Charlene Rumbolt, whose art highlights items and traditions that are of great importance to NunatuKavut communities.
The artwork will be installed and on display for the public to see in the lobby of the Confederation Building, East Block.
Today’s ceremony is part of a larger collaboration between the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and Indigenous Governments and Organizations throughout the province.
As part of this collaboration, a meaningful process was developed for selecting artists and procuring six culturally significant pieces of Indigenous artwork to be displayed in the Confederation Building. This includes a Beothuk statue, which is situated at the base of the steps leading to the front entrance of Confederation Building.
Quotes
“It is an honour to stand with the NunatuKavut Community Council as we celebrate the incredible talent of Charlene Rumbolt. Her artwork is a powerful expression of cultural identity and resilience. Today’s unveiling is a meaningful step in recognizing traditional strength and beauty in Labrador and in promoting Indigenous culture across our province.”
Honourable John Hogan, KC
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“Charlene Rumbolt’s art is a beautiful tribute to heritage and lived experiences of the people of NunatuKavut. Today’s ceremony is a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural expression in Reconciliation, and we are proud to stand with the NunatuKavut Community Council in honouring this legacy.”
Honourable Dr. Scott Reid
Minister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
Minister for Environment and Climate Change
“As a proud member of NunatuKavut, it is important to see our Inuit culture, ancestry and way of life represented in the art selected for display in the Confederation Building. Through this project, Indigenous People from across our province can take pride in knowing our unique stories are on display for all to see.”
Honourable Lisa Dempster
Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Agriculture
Minister of Labrador Affairs
“I am proud to be present here today as we unveil a piece of artwork that is a true representation of NunatuKavut Inuit and our way of life. Nakummek to Charlene Rumbolt, a very talented Inuk artist who has beautifully captured the facets of our culture that are so valued by our people. It especially honours our women and the vital role they play in providing for their families and communities through strong leadership, knowledge and sense of community. We also thank Premier Hogan and his government for ensuring the inclusion of NunatuKavut Inuit. This is the last installation, completing this incredible representation of Indigenous People in this province.”
President Todd Russell
Nunatukavut Community Council
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