The Nunatsiavut Government is calling Memorial University’s draft Indigenous verification policy a step forward in protecting Indigenous rights.

President Johannes Lampe says the policy affirms a principle that Inuit and other Indigenous peoples have always known, that Indigenous identity is not a matter of personal claim, but of community belonging and accountability.

The NunatuKavut Community Council, which claims southern Inuit identity, is taking issue with the policy, saying it singles them out.

The Nunatsiavut Government, the Innu Nation and the Inuit Tapariit Kanatami have all rejected NCC’s Indigenous claims.

President Lampe says Inuit have long fought for the recognition of their rights and the protection of their identity. He calls the policy an important step in ensuring that spaces and programs meant for Inuit and other Indigenous peoples are protected.

Public feedback on the draft policy is being accepted until May 2.