Foundations of a New Government

Lasting Intergenerational Connections
Fall 2009

There are few places in the world where the recent habitants have experienced as many changes in so little time as in Nunavik.

In spite of the rapidly changing ways of life that the last three generations have experienced, the connections between grandparents and grandchildren are still very close. How do Inuit make this happen? Is this part of the foundation that will make a new government possible?

In our Fall 2009 banner an elder connects with two young girls by showing them a traditional Inuit string game.  An awe-inspiring landscape near Salluit is displayed in the background.

What can you tell us about the connections between elders and young people in Nunavik?  Write us or send us photos about the theme.

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Photo: Juusipi with Linda Rose and his daughter Louisa, Kativik School Board
Photo: Fiord near Salluit, Hannah Shenker

The Strength of Our Elders
Fall 2008
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Nunavimmiut, the people of Nunavik, have faced and survived many difficulties. What challenges have our elders faced and what has helped them survive? How can the same qualities help Nunavimmiut in today's modern world?

In our Fall 2008 banner you see the participants of the 2008 Elders'
Retreat.  In the background the Inukjuak River rapids are a reminder that it takes a lot of inner strength to adapt to the forces of nature.

See the original photos of our banner
Find educational ideas for your class (for teachers)

Warm and Welcoming People
Winter 2008
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The Inuit of Nunavik are warm and welcoming. We would like to think about the origin of these qualities and how they are reflected in the Inuit spirit and ways of today.

In our banner, the  teenagers behind the qulliq, the traditional Inuit lamp, are a reminder that youth of today carry forward Inuit values, customs and traditions.

           Listen to what Pita Aatami said at the AIP signing ceremony
           Try our Nunavik Quiz question: The Right to Vote

Sharing in Nunavik
Fall 2007

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We are inviting you to think about sharing in Nunavik. What do Inuit of Nunavik share? The first thing that might come to your mind is food. Think of some of the different ways Inuit share food. Now, try to think of other things Inuit share. Think hard, there are many different ways that Inuit in Nunavik share. Which of these practices are unique to Inuit?

Now, ask yourself, how is sharing present in government? For example, is an exchange of ideas a kind of sharing? In what ways have Inuit traditionally shared opinions and ideas?

Our Foundations of a New Government themes invite you to join us while we ponder these thoughts.


The inspiration for our themes:

"We are thinking of the perpetual question "What is the foundation of this government"?

Our idea is to start having people think and talk about "values, customs and traditions" that keep our society's identity strong.  If we are to govern ourselves, we have to be proud of who we are and know how we have survived and we need to continue to survive as a whole even in the modern day based on who we are. Practices that are important to us:  sharing food, names, customs such as Arnaqutik, Sanajik etc  need to be understood by the younger generation to make them realize that they are an important part of being Inuk. " (Minnie Grey)

(posted Sept 17, 2007;  last update October 5, 2009)

  • October 5, 2009
  • Webmaster

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www.nunavikgovernment.ca

On this interactive website, you can express your opinions. Your comments are welcomed. Simply click on the "comments" link below a message and type away!

Here, you will find up to date information (news articles). There are also sections providing historical background, documents about the negotiations, photos, video clips and a glossary of important words.

The Nunavik negotiating team