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
Healthy Coping Strategies Booklet with Colouring Pages
This booklet was inspired by the 2022 United for Life Summit in Cambridge Bay, where Nunavut youth shared and brainstormed a list of healthy coping strategies they use in their day to day lives. The coping strategies they came up with can be found in this booklet alongside colouring pages and other activities. The booklet.
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.