You are Inuk. Period.
Despite modern influences and conveniences, the core values, language, knowledge, and beliefs inherent within the Inuit culture remain a steady part of life in Nunavut and for all Inuit. As suggested by Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, thousands of years of tradition still shape the nature of the Inuit community.
Adapting to the modernization of Inuit lifestyle does not mean becoming any less Inuk. You are Inuk, and you will always be Inuk. But what does that mean these days: to be Inuk?
What Does Being Inuk Mean to You?
In Nunavut today, being Inuk means that you can freely identify with aspects of both traditional and modern culture.
It means that you can purchase groceries from the co-op or Northern Store and still participate in the hunt. It means that children can attend formal school while respecting the education observed by their ancestors. It means that if you own a television, you can still master the art of drumming, juggling, or katajjaq.
Accepting changes within Inuit culture doesn’t mean you are turning your back on tradition. It means that you are willing to learn, alongside others, what it means to be Inuk in today’s world, while respecting your Inuit roots. It simply means that you are doing your best to bridge the gap between the old, and the new.
Where Do You Belong?
Finding your place within modern Inuit society can be challenging. It is important for you to remember that the choice is not between being Inuk and not being Inuk. You can identify with as many, or as few, elements of traditional or modern Inuit culture as you are comfortable with, and still be 100% Inuk.
If you’re feeling confused about your cultural identity, we’re here to help.
Additional Source: Inuit Cultural Online Resource
More Resources
Children’s Arts and Craft Activity Book
Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit Embrace Life Council developed this Arts and Crafts Book to inspire creativity and pride in the culture and surroundings of Nunavummiut. Children can practice their creative skills in different forms as each project has a unique style of art to work with. Children ages 9 and over may work independently, younger children.
Navigating Grief, A Guided Journal
IIKELC Grief Journal Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit Embrace Life Council strives to assist in the grief and recovery journey in the Territory through developing and promoting mental wellness and social inclusion programs and services. The journey of grief can be extremely hard and there are many different aspects to it. It is a multidimensional process. Beyond.
Youth and Adult Arts and Craft Activity Book
Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit Embrace Life Council developed this Arts and Crafts Book to inspire creativity and pride in the culture and surroundings of Nunavummiut. Youth and Adults can practice their creative skills in different forms as each project has a unique style of art to work with. This book contains projects made in Nunavut by.
Isumajunnattiarniq – Nunavut’s Mindfulness App Survey
A Guide for Parents and Caregivers, Supporting Children and Teens with Grief, Loss & Healing
This is a guide to help parents and caregivers support their children and teens with grief, loss & healing. Each child is different in how they understand and respond to grief. Their response will depend on age, maturity and developmental level, and their ability to understand death. If we allow children to talk to us.
Talking to Children About Suicide – Children’s Book
Over the years, IIKELC has received many requests for a resource to support families in talking to their children about suicide. In response to these requests, we have created a children’s book called “Talking to Children About Suicide” that follows the story of a child attempting to understand and process this type of loss. This.