The JLP in Nunavut
In late November, Ontario-Nunavut Regional Field Coordinators (RFC) Aaron MacGregor (union) and Anu Datta (employer) were approached by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) – Service Canada with a special request. The Nunavut Service Canada team would be meeting in person in January for the first time in 17 years.
Recognizing a significant opportunity for learning, the Director of this team requested a workshop to provide a deeper understanding of the Collective Agreement, tailored specifically to the unique needs and circumstances of public service employees in Nunavut.
Assisted by PSAC-North, the RFCs arranged a second in-person workshop inviting multiple federal departments based in Iqaluit, ensuring they could serve the wider community.
The first workshop was a resounding success. Engaged throughout the session, participants shared personal experiences that enriched the workshop’s content. The RFCs ended their day with a greater understanding of the challenges faced by federal employees in Nunavut, and the unique barriers specific to Inuit employees. Later that evening, the RFCs joined some of the team members for dinner; where they discussed the workshop's outcomes and acknowledged its tangible benefits.
The second workshop was impacted by a snowstorm, preventing half of the participants from attending, despite their best efforts to navigate the weather-related conditions. Those who made it relied on the support of neighbors and colleagues, highlighting the community spirit in overcoming daily challenges in the North.
Aaron and Anu quickly realized the challenges of coordinating in Iqaluit, especially considering the high costs of living in Nunavut. Embracing the community spirit, they packed a suitcase filled with food and personal items to donate to a local initiative supporting those experiencing homelessness.
Mid-week, the strength and compassion of the community were once more demonstrated when a devasting fire blazed though a low-rise apartment building, leaving 38 families with no home. The response from the Iqaluit community was swift and powerful to provide aid. By the time the RFCs left, plans were already in motion to relocate those affected within a month.
Aaron and Anu showed a keen interest in learning from my team members as they shared about their Inuk culture. Something meaningful can happen when you are in a space with allies, and I feel that is what was created that day. Reconciliation occurs step by step, day by day, and I feel that this workshop was one small piece of that larger puzzle.
Thank you for your support, it does matter.
- Sara Clemmer, Director, ESDC
Though the original purpose of the trip was to facilitate a workshop on the Collective Agreement, it ended up offering the RFCs a profound opportunity to learn more about their region and the needs of people who live there. This experience truly embodied the spirit of Taimanngit qaujiqatigiingillugit – Learning from Each Other.