On International Women’s Day, ICC honors the strength and leadership of Inuit women, who are the backbone of our communities, protectors of cultural heritage, and agents of social and political change.

Historically and to this day, Inuit women continue to face systemic discrimination, gender-based violence, and colonial policies that have clearly targeted women.

The consequences of these violations – including the IUD program and other forms of forced birth control in Kalaallit Nunaat and Denmark, forced relocations, residential schools in Canada, and other violations against the reproductive health of Inuit women – affect not only the individual woman or girl but all our peoples across Inuit Nunaat. Furthermore, cases of missing and murdered Inuit women and the forced placement of Inuit children testify to the serious state of affairs, and the need for urgent action to end discrimination against Inuit women.

Despite these injustices, Inuit women have never been passive victims. Across Inuit Nunaat and urban centers, they are leading the fight for justice, challenging silence and prejudice, and reclaiming their knowledge, culture, rights and autonomy.

ICC plans an Inuit Women’s Summit

ICC is fundraising and planning an Inuit Women’s Summit to address violence and discrimintation against Inuit women. The summit will bring together Inuit practitioners to share knowledge on healing, reparation and prevention, develop Inuit-specific recommendations for action, and strengthen connections across Inuit Nunaat.

As international attention to the Arctic increases, it is more important than ever to amplify Inuit women’s voices, ensuring their rights and knowledge are at the forefront of global and local agendas.

As ICC chair Sara Olsvig emphasizes:

“International Women’s Day is one day of the year, but we are working for women’s justice all year. I am exited that we this year, will hold an Inuit Women’s Summit to further build on the expertise and knowledge of Inuit women from all of our homelands“.

“Inuit women are leading the way – reviving Indigenous healing practices and advocating for justice. Their experiences are vital in shaping conversations on women’s issues, and Inuit voices must be centered in efforts to end all forms of discrimination against women”.

Inuit Women’s Summit is planned to be held in Kalaallit Nunaat the last week of October, 2025.

This initiative is currently co-funded by Pauktuutit – Inuit Women of Canada and the Danish Parliament. ICC is inviting interested partners and funders to support this important initiative.