Congratulations to Charlie Watt and Andrew Atagotaaluk on their appointment to the Order of Canada!

The Avataq Cultural Institute proudly celebrates two distinguished leaders from Nunavik whose lifelong dedication to our people, culture, language, and communities has earned them one of Canada’s highest civilian honours – the Order of Canada. On Friday May 15th, 2026, at Governor General Mary Simon’s final investiture ceremony, former Senator Charlie Watt, and Bishop Andrew Atagotaaluk are being formally recognized among 14 new appointees.

Avataq President William Tagoona said about the appointment, “I first met Charlie Watt in Residential School in Churchill, Manitoba. I was 12 at the time, and he was 21. But even then, he was already inspiring other Inuit. He was an Inuk supervisor, and we all looked up to him. Charlie taught us about speaking up and speaking out,” said William. “And Andrew Atagotaaluk, from Inukjuak, made history as the first Inuk Bishop of the Arctic in the Anglican Church. We’re very proud they are being honoured today by our very own Governor General Mary Simon. There could be no more fitting way to conclude her term as Governor General of Canada.”

Charlie Watt, born in 1944 in Kuujjuaq (then Fort Chimo), is a visionary Inuk leader, hunter, Senator, and businessman who has shaped modern Inuit history. As founder and first president of the Northern Quebec Inuit Association (NQIA), he played a pivotal role in negotiating the landmark James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement, signed in 1975. He went on to establish Makivvik, and served with distinction for 34 years in the Senate of Canada, where he championed Indigenous rights and proudly introduced Inuktitut into the chamber. A lifelong advocate for self-determination and cultural preservation, Charlie continues to inspire new generations in his home community of Kuujjuaq.

Andrew Atagotaaluk, from Inukjuak, made history as the first Inuk Anglican Bishop in the Arctic. Raised in the traditional Inuit way on the land in Nunavut and Nunavik, his leadership has touched countless lives across the Arctic. As Bishop of the Arctic, he dedicated himself to community healing, strengthening Inuit culture and identity, supporting youth well-being, and nurturing spiritual life in our communities. His work has bridged traditional Inuit values with faith, fostering resilience and hope in challenging times.

These honours reflect not only their individual achievements but the strength, wisdom, and resilience of the Inuit of Nunavik. At Avataq, we are deeply grateful for leaders who have protected our language, culture, and Inuit rights while building a stronger future for all.

Nakurmiik Charlie and Andrew — your legacies continue to light the way for our people. We join all of Nunavik and Inuit across the Arctic in celebrating this well-deserved recognition!

Photo crédit:

Master Sailor (MS) Anne-Marie Brisson, Rideau Hall © OSGG, 2026

La matelot-chef (matc) Anne-Marie Brisson, Rideau Hall © BSGG, 2026