Thomas Suluk facts for kids

Thomas Suluk (born March 14, 1950 – died October 13, 2018) was an important Canadian politician. He worked to represent the people of Nunatsiaq (a special area for elections) in the House of Commons of Canada from 1984 to 1988. He was part of the Progressive Conservative political party.

Who Was Thomas Suluk?

Thomas Suluk was born on March 14, 1950. His birthplace was Arviat, which was then part of the Northwest Territories. He went to a special school called Arthur Turner Anglican Theological School in Pangnirtung. This town is located on Baffin Island.

After school, Thomas Suluk was going to work in Apex, Iqaluit. However, he was only 22 years old. This was too young to become a priest at that time. So, instead of waiting, he decided to get involved in politics.

Getting Involved in Politics

Thomas Suluk started his political journey when Inuit people were learning more about their land rights. They were also learning about their civil rights. He first worked in his local town council office.

Later, he started working for Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami. This group works for the rights and interests of Inuit people across Canada. Thomas Suluk was interested in helping his community on a bigger scale.

For a short time, he worked as a radio announcer for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.

Serving in Parliament

In 1984, Thomas Suluk won an election. He became a member of the House of Commons of Canada. This is where Canada's laws are made. He represented the area called Nunatsiaq. This area is now known as Nunavut.

He won by a small number of votes. He was a candidate for the Progressive Conservative party. During his time in Parliament, Thomas Suluk focused on land claims issues in Nunavut. These claims were about the rights of Inuit people to their traditional lands.

He also worked with the Tungavik Federation of Nunavut. This group helped to negotiate land claims and treaties for Inuit people. It is now called Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated. Thomas Suluk did not run for election again in 1988.

After Politics

After his time in politics, Thomas Suluk opened a coffee shop. It was in his hometown of Arviat. In 2008, he was working on a health survey for Inuit people.