Nunavut’s therapeutic justice initiative — a six-month, culturally grounded alternative to traditional court processing — is being expanded to Pond Inlet after early results show low rates of re-offending among participants.
Culture and skills at the centre of rehabilitation
The program, launched in 2019 in Cambridge Bay, now operates in Arviat and is slated to move into Pond Inlet. It pairs cultural teaching and community-based supports with justice referrals to help Nunavummiut address the underlying causes of offending.
On the ground in Arviat, Joseph Kablutsiak — a father, grandfather and hunter who also operates heavy equipment — works directly with participants. He teaches traditional skills such as making ulus, harpoon heads and qamutiks, and uses those sessions to open conversations with men and boys who are on probation.
“I try to be a good role model for them,” Kablutsiak said, describing how he talks with young people and passes on lessons from his father.
Early results and referrals
Program manager Tracy May said about 160 Inuit have taken part in the initiative so far, and that fewer than 10 per cent of participants have re-offended. That figure is cited by the program as an indicator that the approach — which program staff describe as holistic and culturally relevant — is working better than some previous options.
Referrals to the program can come from two sources:
- RCMP — can refer people pre-charge for lesser offences such as vandalism or theft under $5,000;
- Crown or defence — can refer individuals after charges have been laid.
Territorial Justice spokesperson Sierra LeBlanc said the program typically runs about six months, "give or take," and is intended to reduce the likelihood of someone re-entering the justice system after release.
Where it started and where it’s going
Officials say the model combines hands-on cultural teaching with supports tailored to participants' needs. Community members involved with delivery emphasise the value of traditional knowledge, mentorship and practical skills as parts of rehabilitation.
| Community | Program start | Participants (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Cambridge Bay | 2019 | Included in overall total |
| Arviat | Now operating | Included in overall total |
| Pond Inlet | Planned expansion | — |
Program staff describe the approach as a needed alternative to other options that have had limited success in Nunavut. Organizers hope that by centring Inuit culture, local mentors and practical skills, participants will find pathways away from crime and back into community life.
The territorial government and program partners are continuing to roll the model out to additional communities, with the stated aim of providing more culturally grounded supports for people involved in the justice system.
