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History Laid Bare
Early Days of the IFA and COPE Eight influential elders gathered together this winter to talk about the development of the Inuvialuit Final Agreement (IFA) and the Committee for the Original People’s Entitlement (COPE). Beyond the details of the deal, the discussions covered all aspects of each person’s upbringing and experience during that time. In more than 14 hours of raw videotape, they speak from the heart about a defining period in Inuvialuit history. Printed in the following pages is a selection of some of the most impactful words shared during the meeting. In no way can this encompass the breadth of knowledge exposed, but it can serve as a window into a different time. Quotes have been edited and condensed for clarity. Additional commentary has been added to provide context to some of the statements.
