Meritorious Service Medal
Awarded on: 2001-06-25
Invested on: 2001-10-12
Tamusi Kasudluak, M.S.M., Inukjuak, Que.
Meritorious Service Medal (civil division)
In 1995, Tamusi Kasudluak’s younger brother committed suicide by walking out alone on the tundra. His body was never found. Mr. Kasudluak set out on a "Walk for Life", travelling some 300 kilometers over two winters, by foot, from Ivujivik to Inukjuak, in an effort to raise awareness on social issues facing Inuit people. During his journey in the hostile winter environment, Mr. Kasudluak met with communities at special activities held in support of his courageous initiative. To carry on Mr. Kasudluak’s crusade at a time when suicide is high among Inuit people, a walk is now held annually in the village of Inukjuak, to promote the importance of preserving human life.