During a ceremony on December 6 to honor the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, Alexia Cousins found the strength to speak out about her own experience of sexual assault. Cousins, who lit a traditional Inuit oil lamp during the event, shared that coming forward felt like the right decision to show others that life can go on despite such challenges.
Cousins disclosed that she has filed a sexual assault complaint with the Iqaluit RCMP against Nastania Mullin, the former CEO of the Manitoba Inuit Association. She revealed that their relationship began when she was 15 and Mullin was slightly older. While their interactions were mostly consensual, Cousins mentioned instances where she felt coerced or manipulated into unwanted actions.
Becoming a mother at a young age, Cousins worked hard to raise her daughter, Cassiar, now 20 years old. Despite an attempt to seek child support from Mullin, who was in law school or practicing law, she faced obstacles due to financial constraints. The Nunavut Law Society confirmed receiving a complaint against Mullin, whose membership has been suspended for non-renewal.
Mullin, who was relieved of his CEO role at the Manitoba Inuit Association following abuse allegations, has faced additional complaints through the #InuitMeToo campaign on social media. While none of the allegations have been proven in court, the advocacy for survivors continues to gain momentum.
The Manitoba Inuit Association appointed a new CEO, Gayle Gruben, to lead the organization, emphasizing a commitment to review and address the situation. Tara Qunngaataq Tootoo Fotheringham, president of the Amautiit Nunavut Inuit Women’s Association, highlighted the importance of supporting survivors and advocating for systemic change in response to abuse allegations.
Inuk singer and activist Tanya Tagaq has been instrumental in amplifying the #InuitMeToo conversations, shedding light on the prevalence of abuse among Inuit women. The movement aims to empower survivors to speak out and demand accountability, fostering a community where individuals are heard and believed.
As more women come forward with their stories, the #InuitMeToo campaign continues to gather momentum, inspiring a collective voice against abuse and harassment within the Inuit community. The call for accountability and support for survivors remains a central focus of the ongoing advocacy efforts.
