Minister Lucy Kuptana says running for Chair of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation was “important” to her and she remains “deeply committed” to the Inavulauit communities. The minister confirmed her return to leadership roles for “cornerstone” issues of housing and gender equity as the Minister responsible for the Status of Women and Housing.
“Participating in this process was important to me, and I remain deeply committed to the wellbeing of Inuvialuit and our communities and look forward to collaborating with Erwin as he takes on this important role,” said Minister Kuptana.
Originally from Aklavik, Minister Kuptana was raised at her family’s bush camp in the Mackenzie Delta. Before taking on the territorial leadership roles as minister, she held a number of leadership roles for over two decades, including as senior administrative officer for the Hamlet of Tuktoyaktuk. The minister was also a director with the Tuktoyaktuk District Education Authority. She worked as the director of Operations, Communications, and Culture with the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation for 22 years. Elected into the Legislative Assembly in 2023, Minister Kuptana represents the constituency of Nunakput, which includes the Northern communities of Paulatuk, Sachs Harbour, Tuktoyaktuk and Ulukhaktok.
“I want to thank everyone who supported me during the recent Inuvialuit Regional Corporation election. I respect the decision of the beneficiaries and extend my most sincere congratulations to Erwin Elias on his successful candidacy,” said Minister Kuptana in the announcement issued today.
“I would like to reiterate my gratitude to everyone who supported my IRC Chairperson campaign and reached out with words of encouragement,” added the minister.
In her message, Minister Kuptana congratulated Chair Erwin Elias on winning the election. Yesterday, Elias was announced as Chair of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation.
Since the election results announcement, leaders across the territory have joined in congratulating Chair Elias.
Premier R.J. Simpson has also issued a congratulatory statement and also emphasized the GNWT’s strong relationship with Inuvialuit government as one built on mutual respect and a shared commitment to the people and communities across Inuvialuit Settlement Region and the NWT.
During his victory speech, a tearful Chair Elias reflected Minister Kuptana’s role in his decision to run.
“When I went on this, decided to put my name forward, Lucy was the one that actually told me to put my name forward. And I put my name forward and I committed myself,” said Chair Elias, with emotion heavy in his throat.
Minister Kuptana affirmed her commitment to her roles as Minister responsible for Housing and Status of Women.
The minister confirmed that she will return to the roles “effective immediately.”
“These responsibilities entrusted to me are ones I take seriously and deeply value, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue contributing to this work.” The “cornerstone” issues of housing and gender equity, remain central to the territory and country, said Minister Kuptana.
“From strengthening communities and supporting families, to advancing economic and cultural wellbeing, these portfolios require consistent leadership, lived experience and collaboration. I look forward to continuing this work alongside my Cabinet colleagues, Members of the Legislative Assembly, Indigenous governments, and community partners.”
