NTI is Saddened to Hear of the Passing of Lazarus Arreak — Former President of QIA, Longtime Interpreter/Translator and Advocate for Seniors in Nunavut

Press Release

(May 6, 2024 – Iqaluit, Nunavut) It was with deep sadness that Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI) learned of the passing of Lazarus Arreak of Clyde River. We extend our sympathies to his family, friends, and community.

Mr. Arreak was President of the Qikiqtani Inuit Association and NTI Board Member from 1996 to 1998. Before that he worked in various roles within NTI, including Director of Economic Development and Director of Communications.

Mr. Arreak had a long career working as an interpreter and translator. He worked for ITC (Inuit Tapirisat Canada, now Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami) from 1976 to 1980, where he was a translator at the 1976 Joint Meeting of the I.T.C. Board of Directors and the NWT Land Claims Committee, the official start of talks to create a new territory that would eventually become Nunavut.

Mr. Arreak was at the 1993 signing of the Nunavut Agreement, and his signature is on the official document as witness on behalf of the Inuit of the Nunavut Settlement Area. Most recently, Mr. Arreak was the first President of the Nunavut Seniors Society, a non-profit seniors advocacy organization.

Mr. Arreak will also be remembered fondly for his love of sports, especially as an avid hockey fan. He could often be seen supporting community sports, and his presence will be missed by many with whom he connected. NTI joins his family and friends in mourning Mr. Arreak’s passing.

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Media Contact:

Kevin Kablutsiak

Director of Communication

Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.

media@tunngavik.com

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