If you are afraid, change your way.
– Inuit Proverb
The Transition from “Traditional” to “Modern” Inuit Society
Over the course of the past fifty years, Inuit men’s roles have changed dramatically.
Traditionally, Inuit men spend much time outdoors, preparing for and embarking on the hunt. Modern Inuit lifestyle however, demands that men pursue a formal education, acquire salaried jobs (often working indoors), and take an active part in both family and community life.
Gender Roles in Modern Inuit Society
In an effort to hold onto traditional Inuit culture and history, some Inuk men are reluctant to adapt to the new reality that necessitates the paying of bills and the purchasing of expensive goods from local grocers. Many men continue to hunt, and refuse to accept full-time paid jobs, leaving women struggling to pay the bills.
According to an article in the National Post, women now outnumber men three to one when it comes to working in the formal economy. This means that women now shoulder the double-burden of providing for the family while, at the same time, taking responsibility for family life inside the home.
You’re Not Alone
Many Inuk men struggle to identify with their role in modern Inuit society, and are unable to secure and keep a job, or maintain healthy relationships with their partner, their children and the community.
According to Nunatsiaq Online, this lack of identity has led many Inuit men to experience feelings of low self-esteem, which in turn has led to numerous incidents between members of the same community. Lost and in need of help, many men experience develop feelings of resentment, anger, and frustration. You are not alone.
The struggle to find their place within modern society is an issue shared between male members of the Inuit community. Now more than ever, it is important that men help other men by sharing and discussing the challenges they face. This does not make a man weak, or helpless. It makes him strong.
If you’re feeling lost, angry or if you need someone to talk with, please contact us.
More Resources
Inspiring Nunavummiuq of the Month – Meet Brittany Holm
My name is Brittany Holm, I am the Mental Health Outreach and Addictions worker here in Naujaat. I have been working in this position for five years now. I have a 15-month-old daughter Aurora-Wynter with my Fiancé Aaron who I met in Naujaat. The best part about working in the community is getting to see the smiles.
Nunavut Colouring Pages
Please enjoy these colouring pages that were developed for the Suicide prevention summit.
ᐃᓄᑦᓯᐊᖅ Inutsiaq
The Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit Embrace Life Council is happy to share the Inutsiaq Campaign videos on this special occasion, Pink Shirt Day. On this day, let’s give support and kindness to one another in our communities. These small moments can make a difference. Please see below for all four videos included in the Inutsiaq Campaign..
Inspiring Nunavummiuq of the Month – Meet Brianna Taparti
Every month IIKELC is highlighting inspiring and uplifting stories from Nunavummiut across the territory. This month we are proud to celebrate Brianna Duffy’s leadership! “One of the things I am most passionate about these days is opening up communication surrounding mental health. For many people it’s difficult to open up about their struggles; so I.
Holiday Self-Care Calendar
…the holidays can be hard, especially if you’ve lost a loved one to suicide. We invite you to follow along with these daily self-care prompts over your winter break. If you can, print off this calendar and check off every self-care activity you do over the Holidays! If you follow along and do every single.
Aippagiittiarniq Discussion Guide
Aippagiittiarniq means “ways of being in good partnership” in Inuktut; the objective of the Aippagiittiarniq discussion guide is to provide an opportunity for youth to discuss their understanding of healthy and unhealthy relationships in a manner conducive to free expression of their ideas and feelings. While examples and descriptions of different kinds of abuse and.