Canada’s leading Inuit organization is preparing for its upcoming leadership election, with two contenders in the running. Natan Obed, seeking a fourth term as the president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), is facing off against political newcomer Kevin Kablutsiak.
ITK serves as the national advocate for Inuit communities across Canada. The organization’s president is elected every three years by representatives from ITK’s four director organizations: the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc., Makivik Corporation, and the Nunatsiavut government.
Kablutsiak, who previously served as the managing editor for CBC North, decided to pursue the ITK presidency about a year ago with encouragement from others. With a background in marketing and communications with various organizations, Kablutsiak aims to ensure that Inuit voices are authentically represented and heard.
Expressing a leadership style centered on humility and collaboration, Kablutsiak emphasizes his commitment to serving the community rather than personal ambition. If elected, he plans to visit different Inuit regions across Canada within his first 100 days to engage with local leaders and address pressing issues such as food security, self-determination, climate change, and language preservation.
On the other hand, Obed, who has held the ITK presidency since 2015, is motivated to continue leading amidst political uncertainties and global challenges. Highlighting housing shortages and mental health as critical concerns, Obed stresses the need for effective implementation of housing strategies and increased support for mental health services within Inuit communities.
The election is scheduled for September 18 during ITK’s annual general meeting in Cambridge Bay, Nunavut. Both candidates will present speeches, engage with delegates, and answer questions before the final vote is cast.
