James Bay agreement a blessing and a curse

On November 11, 1975, the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement was signed between the federal and provincial governments and the Inuit of Nunavik.

Since they signed the agreement, it has been very beneficial and a curse at the same time.

Why, you ask? It has been beneficial because of job creation, better health care, a better understanding of the world, etc.

A curse? Because of social problems, too much dependence on welfare, processed food, etc., and more importantly, no self-government to this date. It has taken 20 years even to sign an agreement-in-principle on self-government. That’s 20 years too long.

I wonder, if the Inuit Tungavingat Nunamini (ITN) had more supporters from other communities, would we have our own government?

(Name withheld by request)
Puvirnituq