What is Maligaksat?

In 2021, Inuvialuit Regional Corporation passed its first Inuvialuit law: Inuvialuit Qitunrariit Inuuniarnikkun Maligaksat, meaning Inuvialuit Family Way of Living Law.

Named by Inuvialuit elders to reflect all three dialects, this law affirms the inherent rights of Inuvialuit to govern matters affecting Inuvialuit children, youth and families.

The law aligns with UNDRIP and Bill C-92, recognizing Indigenous jurisdiction in child and family services.

Our Guiding Principles

Maligaksat is guided by four principles identified during community consultations across the Inuvialuit Settlement Region:

• Cultural Continuity and keeping children in community
• Enhancing Supports to families 
• Enhanced Access to and sharing of Information
• Growing Inuvialuit jurisdiction – based on Inuvialuit time lines

Additional Support We Provide

Maligaksat can also assist with

• Inuvialuit registration and enrolment guidance
• Connecting youth and families to wellness programs
• Advocacy to ensure Inuvialuit rights and protocols are respected

What We Do Not Do

To help clarify our role, Maligaksat staff do not

• represent children or parents in court
• provide legal advice
• overturn child protection orders
• place children or youth in out-of-home arrangements

Who Can Access Support

Maligaksat services are available to

• Inuvialuit children
• Inuvialuit youth (up to age 29)
• Parents and caregivers
• Family members seeking guidance or support

Contact Maligaksat

If you have questions or need support, please reach out.

Phone: 867.768.5930
Email: childadvocate@inuvialuit.com

If you are a child, youth, parent or family member who may need support, please reach out.