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
Youth Peer Leadership 2023
Applications for this year’s Youth Peer Leadership program are now open for youth ages 19-25! 6 communities from the Qikiqtani region have been selected: Successful applicants will travel to Iqaluit for November 29- December 1, 2023. You can find more details about this program as well as the application forms at the bottom of this.
Check Out Our Newsletter!
IIKELC sends bi-monthly newsletters packed with program highlights, mental health resources, inspiring stories from Nunavummiut, and more! If you want to receive our newsletter, please subscribe through the prompt at the bottom of our home page. Previous Newsletters:
Inspiring Nunavummiuq of the Month – Meet Kendall Aknavigak
Every month IIKELC is highlighting inspiring and uplifting stories from Nunavummiut across the territory. This month we are proud to celebrate Kendall Aknavigak! Please enjoy her story below… “I have faced many adversities in my life. I have overcome the death of my best friend and my father,who both passed away within a year of.
Inspiring Nunavummiuq of the Month – Meet Akutaq Williamson Bathory
Every month IIKELC is highlighting inspiring and uplifting stories from Nunavummiut across the territory. This month we are proud to celebrate Akutaq Williamson Bathory! Please enjoy her story below… “Through difficult moments in life it is important to me to recognize where I am in life and who I am supported by. This support comes.
Inspiring Nunavummiuq of the Month – Meet Brittany Holm
Every month IIKELC is highlighting inspiring and uplifting stories from Nunavummiut across the territory. This month we are proud to celebrate Brittany Holm! Please enjoy her story below… “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.
Nunavut Colouring Pages
Please enjoy these colouring pages that were developed for the Suicide prevention summit.