Above & Beyond | Canada's Arctic Journal 2016 | 02

2016 | 02 • $5.95

Clowns of the Arctic Bird Kingdom

Nunavik’s Hub on All Fours

Magical Passages Sailing Greenland

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Pootoogook Qiatsuk

Jobie Tukkiapik / JW bexW4

Brock Friesen / XÇ4 K‰n8

Dear Guest, 2016 has already been an exciting year at First Air! I am happy to tell you that in February we flew our inaugural flight with the first ATR 42-500 joining our fleet.

The aircraft is in a fixed 42-seat all-passenger configuration, perfectly suited for the harsh weather conditions in Canada’s North, including being equipped to operate on gravel runways. The ATR 42-500 is now providing scheduled services to Hay River on morning and evening flights and operates to Fort Simpson as well as on selected Kitikmeot routes.

By the end of March we expect to bring our second ATR 42-500 online and we will gradually introduce more of this type to our fleet this year.

Not all ATR 42-500s will be all-passenger; some will operate as a fixed configuration of both passenger and cargo. ATR 42-500s will be based at both our Northern hubs in Yellowknife and Iqaluit.

The modernization of our fleet is a key part of our three-year $110M investment turnaround program and continues to be a top priority for us. The new 500-series will be used to expand the fleet, as well as to gradually replace the ATR 42-300s on scheduled routes. The aircraft offers improved seating and comfort and has better performance.

An upgraded cabin allows for better seating options as well as an increase in payload capacity.

Our investment in more modern aircraft is yet again showing our dedication to the communities and the people we serve. Thank you for flying First Air, the Airline of the North – we are happy to have you aboard.

Brock Friesen First Air President & CEO

ᑐᕌᖅᑐᑦ ᐃᑭᒪᔪᓄᑦ,

2016 ᐅᑭᐅᕆᓕᖅᑕᖓ ᕘᔅᑦ ᐃᐊᒃᑯᑦ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᓕᕆᔨᖏᓄᑦ ᓂᕆᐅᖕᓂᖃᑦᑎᐊᓕᑲᐅᑎᒋᕗᖅ! ᖁᕕᐊᓱᒃᐳᖓᑦ ᐃᓕᑦᓯᓐᓂᒃ ᑐᓴᖅᑎᑦᑎᓯᒪᓕᕆᐊᒥᒃ ᕕᑉᕈᐊᕆᐅᓕᖅᑎᓪᓗᒍ ᓯᕗᓪᓕᖅᐹᖅᓯᐅᑎᖓᓂᒃ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᓯᕗᓪᓕᖅᐸᐅᓪᓗᓂ ATR 42-500-ᒥᒃ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖁᑎᑦᑎᓐᓄᑦ ᐱᑖᕆᔭᐅᓵᖅᓯᒪᔪᒥᒃ ᐊᑐᕈᓐᓇᖅᓯᓚᐅᕋᑦᑕ.

ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖅᑖᓵᖅᐳᑦ ᑖᓐᓇ ᐋᖅᑭᒃᓱᖅᑕᐅᓯᒪᕗᖅ 42-ᓂᒃ ᐃᑭᒪᔪᓂᑦ ᐃᒃᓯᕙᐅᑕᖃᖅᑎᑕᐅᓕᖅᑐᓂ, ᐋᖅᑭᒃᓱᖅᑕᐅᓯᒪᓂᖓᓗ ᓂᒡᓚᓱᓗᐊᖅᐸᓐᓂᖓᓄᑦ ᓯᓚᖓᑕ ᑲᓇᑕᐅᑉ ᐅᑭᐅᖅᑕᖅᑐᖓᓂ ᐃᖢᐊᖅᑑᓪᓗᓂ, ᐃᓚᖃᖅᑎᑕᐅᓪᓗᓂ ᐊᑐᖅᑕᐅᔪᓐᓇᓕᖅᑎᑕᐅᓯᒪᓪᓗᓂ ᑐᐊᐸᖕᒥᒃ ᒥᑦᑕᕐᕕᖓᖅᑐᓄᑦ. ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖅ ᑖᓐᓇ ATR 42-500 ᑎᑭᖃᑦᑕᓕᕐᓂᐊᕐᓂᖓ ᐋᖅᑭᒃᓱᖅᑕᐅᓯᒪᕗᖅ ᕼᐊᐃ ᕆᕙᐅᑉ ᓄᓇᓕᖓᓄᑦ ᐅᓪᓛᒃᑯᑦ ᐅᓐᓄᒃᓴᒃᑯᓪᓗ ᐊᖅᑯᓵᖅᐸᓐᓂᐊᖅᑐᓂ ᕗᐊᑦ ᓯᒻᓴᓐᒧᑦ ᐊᖅᑯᓵᖅᐸᒃᑭᓪᓗᓂ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᕿᑎᕐᒥᐅᑦ ᓄᓇᓕᖏᓐᓄᑦ ᑎᑭᖃᑦᑕᓕᖅᑐᓂ.

ᒫᔾᔨ ᐃᓱᓕᓯᒪᓕᖅᐸᑦ ᑐᒡᓕᕆᔭᖓᓂᒃ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᒃᑲᓐᓂᕐᒥᒃ ATR 42500-ᒥᒃ ᐋᖅᑮᓯᒪᓕᕐᓂᐊᒥᔪᒍᑦ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐊᑐᓕᖅᑎᑕᐅᕙᓪᓕᐊᓕᕐᓂᐊᕆᓪᓗᑎᒃ ᑕᕝᕙᓂ ᐅᑭᐅᕆᔭᑦᑎᓐᓂ ᐃᓚᒋᔭᐅᖃᑕᐅᓕᕐᓗᑎᒃ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᕆᔭᑦᑎᓐᓄᑦ. ᑕᒪᕐᒥᓗᒃᑖᖅ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖁᑎᒋᔭᕗᑦ ATR 42-500ᖑᓪᓗᑎᒃ ᐃᓄᖕᓂᒃ ᐅᓯᖃᑦᑕᓗᒃᑖᕐᓂᐊᖖᒋᒻᒪᑕ, ᐃᓚᖏᑦ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᑦ ᐊᑐᖅᑕᐅᕙᓐᓂᐊᖅᑐᑎᒃ ᐃᓄᖕᓂᒃ ᐅᓯᔭᐅᔪᓂᒃᓗ ᐱᖁᑎᓂᒃ ᐅᓯᕙᓐᓂᐊᕐᓗᑎᒃ. ᖃᖓᑕᓲᑦ ATR 42-500 ᐊᐅᓚᑕᐅᓂᖃᕐᓂᐊᖅᐳᑦ ᐅᑭᐅᖅᑕᖅᑐᒥ ᐊᐅᓚᑦᓯᕝᕕᒋᔭᐅᔪᓂ ᔭᓗᓇᐃᒥ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐃᖃᓗᖕᓂ.

ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖁᑎᑦᑕ ᓄᑕᐅᓕᕆᐊᖅᑎᑕᐅᓂᖏᑦ ᐃᓚᒋᔭᐅᓪᓚᕆᖕᒪᑦ ᐅᑭᐅᓄᑦ ᐱᖓᓱᓄᑦ (3) ᑮᓇᐅᔭᓂᒃ $110-ᒥᓕᐊᓐᑖᓚᓂᒃ ᕿᑐᕐᖏᐅᖅᑎᑦᑎᓪᓗᑕ ᐅᑎᖅᓯᒪᓕᖅᑎᑦᑎᒋᐊᕐᓂᑦᑎᓐᓂ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᒥᒃ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᓯᕗᓪᓕᖅᐸᐅᑎᑕᒃᓴᕆᓪᓗᒍ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᒃᓴᕆᓕᖅᓯᒪᔭᕆᖕᒥᔭᕗᑦ. ᓄᑖᖑᓪᓗᑎᒃ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖁᑎᕗᑦ 500-ᐃᑦ ᐊᑐᓕᖅᑎᑕᐅᓂᐊᕐᒥᔪᑦ ᐊᒥᓱᕈᕆᐊᕈᑕᐅᓂᐊᕐᓗᑎᒃ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖁᑎᒋᔭᑦᑎᓐᓄᑦ, ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐃᓇᖏᕈᑎᐅᕙᓪᓕᐊᓂᐊᖅᑐᑎᒃ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᕆᔭᑦᑎᓐᓄᑦ ATR 42-300-ᓄᑦ ᑎᑭᑎᑕᐅᕙᒃᑐᓄᑦ ᓄᓇᓕᖕᓄᑦ. ᖃᖓᑕᓲᑦ ᑖᒃᑯᐊ ᐃᒃᓯᕙᐅᑕᖏᑦ ᐃᖢᐊᕐᓂᖅᓴᐅᓂᐊᕐᒪᑕ ᐱᐅᓂᖅᓴᐅᓪᓗᑎᒃᓗ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐊᑐᖅᑕᐅᔭᕆᐊᖏᑦ ᓈᒻᒪᖕᓂᖅᓴᐅᔫᓪᓗᑎᒃ. ᓄᑕᐅᓕᕆᐊᖅᑎᑕᐅᓯᒪᓂᖓᑦ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖅᑎᑦ ᐃᑭᒪᕝᕕᐊᑕ ᐃᒃᓯᕚᕐᕕᖃᓕᒃᑲᓐᓂᕈᑕᐅᓯᒪᒋᕗᖅ ᐊᑭᒋᕙᒃᑕᖏᓄᑦ ᐋᖅᑭᒋᐊᖅᑕᐅᓯᒪᑦᑎᐊᕐᓂᖅᓴᐅᓕᕐᑐᑎᒃ.

ᑮᓇᐅᔭᓂᒃ ᕿᑐᕐᖏᐅᖅᑎᑦᑎᓕᕐᓂᕗᑦ ᓄᑖᖑᓂᖅᓴᓂᒃ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖁᑎᖃᓕᖅᑐᑕ ᓇᓗᓇᐃᖅᓯᔾᔪᑎᒋᓯᒪᔭᑦᑎᓐᓄᑦ ᐃᓚᐅᒋᕗᖅ ᓄᓇᓕᐅᔪᓄᑦ ᐃᓄᖏᓐᓄᓪᓗ ᐱᔨᑦᑎᕋᖅᑎᐅᑦᑎᐊᕋᓱᓐᓂᑦᑎᓐᓄᑦ. ᖁᔭᓐᓇᒦᒃ ᐃᑭᒪᔪᓐᓇᓚᐅᕋᕕᑦ ᕘᔅᑦ ᐃᐊᒃᑯᓐᓂ, ᐅᑭᐅᖅᑕᖅᑐᒥᐅᑦ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖁᑎᖓᓂ — ᖁᕕᐊᓱᑦᑎᐊᖅᐳᒍᑦ ᐃᑭᒪᖃᑕᐅᔪᓐᓇᓚᐅᕋᑦᓯ.

ᐸᕌᒃ ᕗᕇᓴᓐ ᕘᔅᑎᐊᒃᑯᓐᓄᑦ ᐊᖓᔪᖅᑳᖅ & ᐊᐅᓚᑦᑎᔨᒻᒪᕆᒃ

President, Makivik Corporation & Chairman, First Air xzJ6√6, mr=F4 fxS‰nzk5 x7m w4y?sb6, {5 wsf8k5 Président, Société Makivik et président du conseil, First Air

Chers invités, L’année 2016 a déjà été fort intéressante chez First Air! Je suis heureux de vous informer qu’en février, nous avons effectué le vol inaugural du premier ATR 42-500 de notre flotte.

Cet aéronef est une version tout-passager fixe de 42 sièges, parfaitement convenable pour les conditions météorologiques extrêmes dans le Nord du Canada, équipé entre autres pour fonctionner sur des pistes en gravier. L’ATR 42-500 offre maintenant des vols réguliers, matin et soir, vers Hay River, et Fort Simpson, ainsi que sur des routes aériennes sélectionnées du Kitikmeot.

D’ici la fin mars, nous envisageons d’introduire notre deuxième ATR 42-500 et nous prévoyons d’incorporer graduellement d’autres aéronefs de ce type dans notre flotte cette année. Les ATR 42-500 ne seront pas tous tout-passager; certains seront exploités comme versions fixes passagers et cargaison. Les ATR 42-500 seront basés à Yellowknife et à Iqaluit, nos plateformes du Nord.

La modernisation de notre flotte est une partie importante de notre programme d’investissement triennal de 110 M$ et continue d’être pour nous prioritaire. La nouvelle série 500 sera utilisée pour l’expansion de la flotte et pour le remplacement graduel des ATR 42-300 sur les vols réguliers. Cet aéronef offre de meilleurs sièges et plus de confort, ainsi qu’une meilleure performance. Un compartiment amélioré offre de meilleures options de siège ainsi qu’une meilleure capacité marchande.

Notre investissement dans des aéronefs plus modernes fait preuve, une fois de plus, de notre engagement envers les communautés et les personnes que nous desservons. Nous vous remercions d’avoir choisi First Air, la Ligne aérienne du Nord — nous sommes heureux de vous recevoir à bord.

Brock Friesen Président-directeur général de First Air

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We value your support and thank you for making First Air The Airline of the North.

Nous apprécions votre soutien et vous remercions de votre appui à First Air la ligne aérienne du Nord.

Like us!

/firstair

Book online at firstair.ca or call 1 800 267 1247

In the News First Air’s safety assurance record recognized First Air, the Airline of the North, is pleased to receive a plaque from Dominion Diamond Ekati Corporation (DDEC) recognizing that First Air has attained the highest level (gold) of the BARS (Basic Aviation Requirements Standards). First Air has achieved and maintained the BARS certification for three consecutive years.

For more information on the BARS Program visit flightsafety.org/bars. © MATHEW ROYLE

Back row, L to R: John Currie, Director OCC (First Air); Taylor Stanton, Procurement Specialist (DDEC); Aaron Speer, Director Flight Operations (First Air); Murray Mudd, Senior Director Quality Assurance (First Air); and Paul Forde, Director Network & Revenue Management (First Air).

Front row, L to R: Rashwan Domloge, VP Maintenance & Engineering (First Air); Brock Friesen, President & CEO (First Air); Todd Brazeau, Director Safety Management (First Air); Jessica Pilgrim, Procurement Specialist (DDEC); René Armas-Maes, Director Sales & Marketing (First Air); Lindsey Weatherhead, Coordinator Safety Management (First Air).

Sheltering our furry friends © JANELLE KENNEDY

First Air has partnered with the Iqaluit Humane Society (IHS) to transport rescued dogs and animals from a number of Northern locations to Iqaluit and southern Canada. This new partnership will also allow the Iqaluit Humane Society to continue their dog run program with the SPCA of Western Quebec every week and expand their services to more remote communities in Nunavut — anywhere First Air flies.

L to R: Julie Hale, Assistant Manager Customer Care; René Armas-Maes, Director Sales & Marketing; Bert van der Stege, Vice President Commercial; Elena Ramirez, Senior Manager Sales & Product Development; Jackie Dankwa, Manager Customer Contact Centre; and Brock Friesen, First Air President & CEO.

© DORIS OHLMANN, above&beyond

NLTS thank you First Air staff attended the Northern Lights Business and Cultural Showcase in Ottawa at the end of January and were pleased to greet Conference delegates, tradeshow exhibitors, clients and the general public from all over Canada’s Arctic, as well as southern hubs like Ottawa, Winnipeg, Edmonton, Montreal, etc. and the circumpolar regions. Thank you to all who visited the booth to chat, share your Northern adventures or pick up current or back issues of above&beyond, Canada’s Arctic Journal and the inflight magazine for First Air.

From the Flight Deck How Does the Tail Help the Plane Fly?

If you look carefully at the tail of an aircraft (which can also be called the empennage if you want to use a technical aviation term), you’ll notice that it’s made up of four parts. There are horizontal elements and vertical elements.

On the front of each is a surface that doesn’t move and each has a flap on the back portion that can move up and down or left and right. Each of those four elements has a different role to play in helping the airplane fly.

flying straight. I’m sure that most of you have folded a paper airplane at some point and then, when you try and throw it, you simply watch the nose almost immediately point straight up or down and the paper airplane doesn’t fly very far. The exact same thing would likely happen to a real airplane without the horizontal stabilizer.

The horizontal stabilizer acts like a set of feathers and keeps the nose from pointing way up or way down. We’ve all likely seen the nose up or nose down problem with paper airplanes but the same thing could happen and make the nose point left or right. That’s why the aircraft has a fin. Like the horizontal stabilizer, it prevents the nose from swinging left or right.

nose to climb and lower it to descend. The same is true with moving the nose left and right. The most common need for this is to respond to crosswinds as we discussed a few months ago. This is where the movable flaps on the back of the stabilizers come into play. On the back of the horizontal stabilizer is the elevator. The elevator can be deflected up or down in order to raise and lower the nose. Likewise, on the back of the vertical stabilizer is the rudder. Just like on a boat, moving the rudder left or right allows the pilot to swing the nose left or right. By moving the elevator or rudder, pilots can point the nose in the right direction, which ultimately controls how the aircraft flies.

The simplest parts are the ones that don’t move — these are called stabilizers. There is a horizontal stabilizer on each side of the aircraft and a vertical stabilizer on the top (this is also called the fin). These parts are much the same as feathers on the back of an arrow or flights on the back of a dart.

Their main purpose is to keep the airplane

When we’re flying we generally spend the bulk of our time with the nose pointing straight ahead so the stabilizers are almost always working hard. That being said, sometimes we don’t want to keep pointing that way. Obvious cases are takeoff (we have to lift the nose up at some point to actually get airborne), we have to raise the

As you can see, the empennage is the unsung hero of the aircraft. Without it we’d spend a great deal of time looking like those paper airplanes without any stabilizing feathers to fly!

The tail of an aircraft plays a critical role in allowing the airplane to fly.

Captain Aaron Speer Director Flight Operations and Captain ATR First Air Check out the new tail art on First Air’s new ATR42-500 (C-FTID). The tail art photo is by First Air pilot Jason Miller who also takes great photos at Baffin Photography.ca © Mark Taylor

Dedicated to being first in service — and our commitment to the communities and people we serve!

ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔭᖅᑎᐅᑉ ᐅᔾᔨᕆᔭᐅᑎᑕᐅᓂᖓ

Employee Spotlight | Iqqanaijaqtiup Ujjirijautitauninga

ᑭᒻ ᐴᓪᑐᕐ | Kim Poulter

1976-ᖑᑎᓪᓗᒍ, ᑭᒻ ᐴᓪᑐᕐ, ᒨᔅ ᔮ, ᓴᔅᑳᑦᓱᕙᓐᒥᑦ, ᐅᑭᐅᖅᑕᖅᑐᒥᒃ ᑕᑯᔭᖅᑐᐃᓚᐅᖅᓯᒪᕗᖅ, ᑭᓯᐊᓂᓗ, ᐊᓯᒋᔭᖏᑦ ᑕᑯᔭᖅᑐᐃᓯᒪᕙᒃᑐᓂᑦ ᐅᑭᐅᖅᑕᖅᑐᒥᒃ, ᐱᐅᒃᓴᓪᓚᕆᓕᑲᐅᑎᒋᒐᒥ ᐅᑭᐅᖅᑕᖅᑑᑉ ᓄᓇᖓᓂᒃ ᐱᐅᓪᓚᕆᒃᑑᓂᖓᓂᒃᓗ ᓄᒃᑎᖅᓯᒪᓕᓚᐅᕐᐳᖅ. ᔭᓗᓇᐃ, ᓄᓇᑦᓯᐊᕐᒥ (NWT) ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔭᖅᑎᒋᔭᐅᕗᖅ ᕘᔅᑦ ᐃᐊᒃᑯᓐᓂ ᓂᐅᕝᕈᑎᖃᖃᑦᑕᕐᓂᓕᕆᓂᕐᒧᑦ ᐊᐅᓚᑦᓯᔨᒋᔭᐅᓪᓗᓂ.

ᑭᒻ ᕘᔅᑦ ᐃᐊᒃᑯᑦ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖅᑎᖏᓂ 1994-ᖑᑎᓪᓗᒍ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔭᖅᑎᐅᓕᓚᐅᖅᓯᒪᔪᖅ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᖁᕝᕙᖅᑎᑦᑎᒋᐊᖅᐸᓐᓂᓕᕆᓂᕐᒧᑦ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᓂᐅᕝᕈᑎᖃᖃᑦᑕᕐᓂᓕᕆᓂᕐᒧᑦ ᐋᖅᑭᒃᓱᐃᔨᒋᔭᐅᓚᐅᖅᑐᓂ ᐅᑭᐅᓄᑦ ᐊᒥᓲᖖᒋᑦᑑᒐᓗᐊᓄᑦ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔮᖃᖔᓕᓚᐅᕋᓂ ᓱᓕ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔮᕆᓕᖅᑕᒥᓂᒃ. ᐅᐊᓕᓂᐅᑉ ᐊᕕᒃᑐᖅᓯᒪᓂᖓᓂᕐᒥᐅᓄᑦ ᐱᔨᑦᑎᕋᖅᑎᒋᔭᐅᕗᖅ ᑲᖏᖅᖠᓂᕐᒥᑦ ᓄᓇᕗᒻᒥᑦ ᐃᓅᕕᒃ ᓄᓇᑦᑎᐊᕐᒧᑦ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐃᓚᖃᖅᑎᓪᓗᒋᑦ ᑕᒪᐃᓂᒃ ᐊᕕᒃᑐᖅᓯᒪᓂᕆᔭᐅᔪᓂᒃ ᓄᓇᓕᒋᔭᐅᔪᓂᒃᓗ ᐊᑯᓐᓂᖏᓂ.

ᐊᑭᓕᖅᓱᖅᑕᐅᓇᓂ ᐃᑲᔪᖅᑎᒋᔭᐅᕙᒃᑑᓪᓗᓂ, ᑭᒻ ᐊᒥᓱᐃᓂᒃ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᖃᖃᑦᑕᖅᓯᒪᕗᖅ ᓲᕐᓗ ᔭᓗᓇᐃᒥ ᕈᑐᕆ ᑲᓚᑉᑯᓐᓄᑦ ᐊᖏᔪᖅᑳᕆᔭᐅᓚᐅᖅᑐᓂ, ᑲᑎᒪᔨᒋᔭᐅᔪᓄᑦ ᐃᓚᒋᔭᐅᖃᑕᐅᓚᐅᖅᑐᓂ (ᑎᓕᔭᐅᓯᒪᓪᓗᓂ ᐱᖖᒍᐊᖅᑎᓕᕆᔨᒃᑯᑦ ᒥᓂᔅᑕᖓᓐᓂᑦ) ᐱᖖᒍᐊᖅᑎᓕᕆᔨᑦ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐱᖖᒍᐊᕐᓂᓕᕆᔨᑦ ᑲᑎᒪᔨᖏᓐᓄᑦ ᓄᓇᑦᓯᐊᕐᒥ, ᐊᖏᔪᖅᑳᕆᔭᐅᓚᐅᖅᑐᓂᓗ ᑎᒥᒥᒃᑎᒍᑦ ᐊᔪᕈᑎᖃᖅᑐᓂᑦ ᐱᖖᒍᐊᕕᒡᔪᐊᕐᓂᓕᕆᔨᖏᓄᑦ ᓄᓇᑦᓯᐊᕐᒥ, ᔭᓗᓇᐃᒥ ᓇᖕᒥᓂᖅ ᐱᓕᕆᕝᕕᓕᕆᔨᑦ ᑲᑎᒪᔨᕐᔪᐊᖏᓄᑦ ᐃᓚᒋᔭᐅᓪᓗᓂ, ᐃᓚᒋᔭᐅᓪᓗᓂ ᓄᓇᑦᓯᐊᕐᒥ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᓄᓇᕗᒻᒥ ᐅᔭᕋᖕᓂᐊᕐᓂᓕᕆᔨᑦ ᑲᑎᒪᔨᖏᓄᑦ, ᑐᑭᓕᐊᖅᑎᒋᔭᐅᓪᓗᓂ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐃᒐᔨᒻᒪᕆᒋᔭᐅᓪᓗᓂ ᑎᓕᐅᕆᔨᐅᓪᓗᓂ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᑲᑎᒪᔨᒋᔭᐅᔪᓄᑦ ᐃᓚᒋᔭᐅᓪᓗᓂ ᐱᖖᒍᐊᕐᓂᓕᕆᔨᓄᑦ, ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐊᑭᓕᖅᓱᖅᑕᐅᓇᓂ ᐊᒥᓱᕐᓚᐅᔪᓄᑦ ᑲᓇᑕᓕᒫᒥ ᐱᖖᒍᐊᕕᒡᔪᐊᖅᑎᑦᑎᔪᓄᑦ ᐱᓕᕆᔨᐅᖃᑕᐅᖃᑦᑕᖅᓯᒪᕗᖅ.

ᑭᒻ ᐃᓕᑕᕆᔭᐅᔾᔪᑎᑖᖅᑎᑕᐅᓚᐅᕐᐳᖅ ᑯᐃᓐ ᔫᐱᓖ ᓴᖅᑲᕐᒥᖁᑎᖓᓂᒃ, ᑲᓇᑕᒥᐅᑦ ᓰᓐᑦ ᔮᓐ ᐃᓕᑕᕆᔭᐅᔾᔪᑎᖓᓂᒃ ᑐᓂᕐᕈᓯᐊᖅᑖᓚᐅᖅᑐᓂ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᑲᓇᑕᒥᐅᓕᒫᑦ ᐃᓕᑕᕆᔭᐅᔾᔪᑎᖓᓂᒃ ᑐᓂᕐᕈᓯᐊᖅᑖᓚᐅᕆᓪᓗᓂ ᓴᐳᔾᔨᒋᐊᖅᑎᐅᕙᓐᓂᖓᓄᑦ ᑎᒥᒥᒃᑎᒍᑦ ᐊᔪᕈᑎᖃᖅᑐᓄᑦ, ᑖᒃᑯᐊ ᐃᓚᑐᐃᓐᓇᕆᕙᐃ ᐃᓕᑕᕆᔭᐅᔾᔪᑎᑖᕆᓯᒪᔭᖏᓂᑦ.

"ᓄᓇᖅᑲᑎᒌᒃᑐᓄᑦ ᐃᓚᒋᔭᐅᒋᐊᓐᓂᒃ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐃᑲᔪᖅᑎᐅᕙᓐᓂᓐᓂᒃ ᐊᑭᓕᖅᓱᕐᑕᐅᓇᖓ ᐊᔪᖖᒋᑐᐊᕌᖓᒪ ᒥᑭᑦᑑᒐᓗᐊᒥᒃ ᐃᑲᔪᖃᑕᐅᓯᒪᔾᔪᑎᒋᔪᓐᓇᖅᐸᒃᑲᒃᑭᑦ. ᑎᒥᒥᒃᑎᒍᑦ ᐊᔪᕈᑎᖃᖅᑐᐃᑦ ᐱᖖᒍᐊᕕᒡᔪᐊᕐᓂᕆᕙᒃᑕᖏᑦ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᕉᑐᕆᒃᑯᑦ ᒪᕐᕈᐃᖑᕗᒃ ᐊᒥᓱᑲᓪᓚᐅᓪᓗᑎᒃ ᑎᒥᖁᑎᒋᔭᐅᔪᓂᑦ ᐃᓗᒥᐅᑕᕆᓪᓚᕆᒃᑕᓐᓂᑦ."

ᕗᔅᑦ ᐃᐊᒃᑯᑦ ᐱᔨᑦᑎᕋᕐᕕᒋᔭᖏᓄᑦ ᓄᓇᓕᐅᔪᓄᐊᕋᐃᒐᒥ, ᑭᒻ ᐃᓄᖏᓐᓂᒃ ᑲᑎᓯᓯᒪᓕᕈᒪᕙᒃᑐᖅ. "ᐊᑐᓂ ᓄᓇᓕᒋᔭᐅᔪᐃᑦ ᐊᔾᔨᒌᖖᒋᓐᓂᖅᖃᕐᒪᑕ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐃᓄᒋᔭᖏᑦ ᐱᐅᓪᓚᕆᒃᑑᓪᓗᑎᒃ. ᐃᓄᑐᖃᕆᔭᐅᔪᓂᑦ ᐅᓂᒃᑳᒃᓴᕆᔭᐅᔪᓂᒃ ᑐᓵᕙᓐᓂᒃᑲ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐊᔾᔨᒌᖖᒋᐅᖅᑐᑎᒍᑦ ᐱᐅᓯᑐᖃᕆᔭᐅᔪᓂᒃ ᖃᓄᐃᓕᐅᖃᑕᐅᕙᓐᓂᒃᑲ ᐱᐅᒋᓪᓚᕆᒃᐸᒃᑕᒃᑲ, ᐱᒻᒪᕆᐅᑎᑉᐸᒃᑕᒃᑲ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐊᑐᕐᓂᖃᒻᒪᕆᒃᑑᑎᒃᐸᒃᑐᒋᑦ. ᕘᔅᑦ ᐃᐊᒃᑯᓐᓂ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔭᖅᑎᒋᔭᐅᔪᑎᒍᑦ ᓄᓇᓕᒋᔭᐅᔪᓂᒃ ᐃᑲᔪᕈᒪᕙᒃᑲᑦᑕ, ᑖᓐᓇ ᐃᓚᒋᔭᐅᖃᑕᐅᕗᖅ ᓱᓇᓄᑦ ᐱᔾᔪᑎᖃᖅᑐᖓ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔮᕆᔭᓐᓂᒃ ᖁᕕᐊᒋᔭᖃᓪᓚᕆᖕᒪᖔᕐᒫ." ᑭᒻ ᐃᓱᒪᓂᖃᕐᒥᔪᖅ ᐊᒥᓱᑦ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔭᖅᑎᒋᔭᐅᒻᒥᔪᓂᒃ ᕘᔅᑦ ᐃᐊᒃᑯᓐᓂ ᑲᓇᑕᓕᒫᒥ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔮᕆᔭᒥᓂᒃ ᖁᕕᐊᒋᔭᖃᕈᑎᒋᒻᒥᒐᒥᒋᑦ.

In 1976, Kim Poulter, from Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, travelled to the North for a quick visit but, like so many, fell in love with the North and all of its beauty. She is based in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories (NWT) as First Air’s Sales Manager.

Kim began working for First Air in 1994 and was Promotions and Sales Coordinator for a few years prior to her current position. She presently serves the western region spanning from Rankin Inlet in Nunavut through Inuvik in the NWT and including all regions and communities in between.

An active volunteer, Kim has held positions such as past president of the Yellowknife Rotary Club, past board member (appointed by the Minister of Sport) to the Sport and Recreation Council of the NWT, past president of Special Olympics NWT, member of the Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce, member of the NWT and Nunavut Chamber of Mines, coach and Chef de Mission and board member in the Sport world, and has volunteered at several National Games.

Kim is the recipient of the Queen’s Jubilee Medal, a Priory of Canada Order of St. John award and a national award for advocating for all persons with a disability, to name a few.

“Being part of a community and volunteering my time whenever possible enables me to play a small role in making a difference. Special Olympics and Rotary are two of the many organizations that are close to my heart.”

When visiting the communities in First Air’s network, Kim loves getting to know the people.

“Each community is so very different and the people are all so amazing. Hearing stories from the elders and experiencing various traditional ways is always so interesting, important and valuable. At First Air we love giving back to the communities, one of the many aspects of my job I most enjoy.” Kim also feels the many wonderful fellow employees at First Air she has the privilege to work with across the country makes her job enjoyable.

Dedicated Dedicatedto tobeing beingfirst firstininservice service— —and andour ourcommitment commitmentto tothe thecommunities communitiesand andpeople peoplewe weserve! serve!

www.firstair.ca

2016 | 02 • $5.95

Clowns of the Arc c Bird Kingdom

Nunavik’s Hub on All Fours

Pootoogook Qiatsuk

Contents 8

20

March | April 2016 Volume 28, No. 2

Magical Passages Sailing Greenland

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26 Features

08

King Eiders

Clowns of the Arctic Bird Kingdom

King Eider drakes are the polar opposites of their

mates — seemingly designed to blend in at the

22

Cirque de Soleil, not among the subdued colours

of the tundra. — Malkolm Boothroyd

Weekend Getaway

Venturing outside Nunavik’s hub on all fours

An escapade out of Kuujjuaq by dogsled is the

26

Magical Passages

33

Pootoogook Qiatsuk

perfect initiation to the Far North and Inuit

traditional way of life. — Isabelle Dubois

Sailing Greenland’s Challenging Waters

Experiencing Greenland by boat is an adventure

in itself with magical passages one wishes would never end. — Krystina Scheller

Virtuosic artist

Pootoogook Qiatsuk has made his own mark in

the art world as an outstanding carver, print and jewellery maker. — Season Osborne

A B oV E & B E yo N d — C A N A dA’ S A rC T I C J o u r N A l

33

13 Living Above&Beyond 21 Resources

37 Culture Amulet use in the Central Arctic — Brendan Griebel 41 Youth young leader’s Summit — Marissa oteiza

44 Arts Indigenous Art — Winnipeg Art Gallery

47 Science Saving our Arctic heritage — david Millar

51 Bookshelf

53 Guest Editorial — Bob Mcleod Premier of the NWT

54 Inuit Forum love and Kindness in the Midst of Violence — Natan obed President, ITK

7

A King Eider drake shakes his wings out.

A King Eider drake takes flight from a fog-shrouded pond on Coats Island, Nunavut.

The clown of the Arctic — the King Eider drake — displays its radiating plumage. Male King Eiders only retain their flashy colours through the courtship season. In late summer eiders moult into dull brown plumage and the bulbous knobs on their beaks shrink.

A female King Eider lies camouflaged in the tundra foliage. Knowing disguise is their best defence, mother eiders stick to their nests even as predators approach, hoping the intruder will walk by, oblivious.

8

2016 | 02

A pair of King Eiders floats on one of Coats Island’s tundra ponds. Eiders form pairs in their wintering territory, and stay together until females begin incubation.

King Eiders Clowns of the Arctic Bird Kingdom Text and photos by Malkolm Boothroyd

I freeze mid-stride. For a moment I

teeter, then gently lower my foot. My hiking boot comes to rest among

tundra grasses that shiver in the polar wind. only steps ahead a King

Eider lies hunched over her nest. her cryptically patterned feathers blend

into the russet and golden foliage so

well she is almost invisible. Gingerly

I back away. For a second my gaze flickers away from the bird. When I

look back, she’s vanished into the

tundra.

A B oV E & B E yo N d — C A N A dA’ S A rC T I C J o u r N A l

9

Bottom: Arctic foxes scour the tundra in search of eider, goose and shorebird nests. In addition to providing for themselves and their pups, foxes must find extra food to cache for the winter.

A King Eider drake takes flight. King Eiders are among the world’s heaviest ducks, some weighing up to two kilograms.

I

of plover and sandpiper nests. Aer eight hours on my feet, I’m starved. I trudge back

shorebird study on Coats Island — on the northern

to our camp and join my companions in our cooking tent. Aer dinner I collect my

margin of Hudson Bay. I share a cramped hut with three

camera and creep towards a nearby pond. Four ducks float on the water. White and

other researchers, the only other humans on an uninhabited

black plumage pattern their wings and chests. Green and steely blue feathers decorate

island the size of Prince Edward Island.

their faces. eir bulbous beaks glow in the evening sunlight with the intensity of hot

hike on through the tussocks. I am in Nunavut for the

I need a meal too. My job involves hiking 20 or more kilometres each day in search

first time in my life, working as a field assistant on a

A month in the Arctic has taught me more about camouflage than any biology textbook could have. Ptarmigan

embers. King Eider drakes are the polar opposites of their mates — seemingly designed to blend in at the Cirque de Soleil, not among the subdued colours of the tundra.

and foxes transform from white to brown as the snows

e sun has been up for close to 20 hours, but I barely feel its warmth. All summer

recede from the landscape. Plovers lay eggs that perfectly

the temperature on Coats Island had hovered within a few degrees of freezing. For

match the lichens and gravel that pattern the Arctic heath.

every day of sun, we endure three or four days where fog shrouds the tundra and wind

In the convoluted refractions of Arctic light, even a

blasts our camp. Only a few dozen bird species can cope with the extremities of the

400-kilogram polar bear can resemble a caribou, a boulder

Nunavut summer. Most take flight from the impending winter, some migrating as far

or a snow patch at a distance. But few animals rely on

south as Panama, Costa Rica or even Argentina. But as the Arctic freezes over, King

concealment more than female King Eiders. Incubating

Eiders stay in the North. Eiders over winter off the coasts of Labrador and Greenland,

eiders are literally sitting ducks. Camouflage is their only

congregating in leads of open water along the jagged frontier of the pack ice. rough-

defence against the Arctic foxes that comb the tundra in

out the winter eiders dive into the ocean’s frigid depths, snapping up invertebrates off

search of a meal.

the sea floor.

Tonight, these eiders seem content in temperatures that have me shivering, even under multiple layers of nylon and fleece. Eider down — among the warmest fibres on earth — keep these birds comfortable. I rely on a down parka and sleeping bag to keep me from freezing. Maybe that represents copyright infringement on millennia of evolution

by King Eiders. If mimicking the adaptations of Arctic species means surviving a summer on Coats Island, then mimicking was worthwhile. Otherwise I’d never had the chance to witness first hand the camouflage and flamboyance that defines King Eiders, or the countless other phenomena that makes Arctic life so spellbinding.

Malkolm Boothroyd grew up in Whitehorse, yukon. he is a photographer and Environmental Studies student at the university of Victoria. malkolmboothroyd.com

Thanks to Grant Gilchrist for help with fact checking.

10

2016 | 02

lIVING ABoVE & BEyoNd

BHENY members receive their share of the Arctic Inspiration Prize from Governor General of Canada David Johnston. © Fred Cattroll/ArcticNet (3)

health, arts and recreation groups receive AIP funds The 2015 Arctic Inspiration Prize (AIP) Awards

Ceremony was held at the end of January at the Shaw Centre in ottawa, ontario, in

conjunction with the Northern lights 2016

Business and Cultural Showcase.

hosted by Peter Mansbridge, the ceremony

featured an exhilarating performance by northern

artists Tanya Tagaq, laakkuluk Williamson

Bathory, Christine duncan and members of Nunavut Sivuniksavut.

The three winning projects are: Better

hearing in Education for Northern youth (BhENy), Qaggiq: Nurturing the Arctic Performing Arts,

and the Tri-Territorial recreation Training (TrT) Host Peter Mansbridge joins the Qaggiq team as they accept their $600,000 Arctic Inspiration Prize.

Members include Laakkuluk Williamson Bathory, director Zach Kunuk and singer Aaju Peter.

Project. They share $1.5M in prize money, an

increase in the annual amount of $1M due to

increased funding from prize partners.

BhENy received $300,000 to install ampli-

fication systems in every school in each of the

13 communities in Nunavut’s Qikiqtani region.

Qaggiq received $600,000 to help create

mentorships, collaborations and teaching

opportunities to connect circumpolar artists.

The prize will also provide funds for a performing arts space to showcase and train northern talent.

Nunavut is the only jurisdiction in Canada that does not have a performing arts centre.

The Tri-Territorial recreation Training

project also received $600,000 to train future

leaders across the North in recreational Members of the Tri-Territorial Recreation Training (TRT) Project claim their $600,000 portion of the $1.5M AIP monies.

A B oV E & B E yo N d — C A N A dA’ S A rC T I C J o u r N A l

programming.

13

lIVING ABoVE & BEyoNd Young members of Nunavut Sivuniksavut greet Conference attendees and visitors with traditional song and dance presentations in the foyer of the Shaw Centre.

Culture and business on display

The Northern lights Business and Cultural

Showcase was held at the end of January at

ottawa’s Shaw Centre. It was a chance for all

those interested in the Arctic to form partner-

ships, exchange information with northern

displaying their work. Arctic entertainers performed each day on stage for visitors and

delegates as well.

exhibits, and delight in the culture and arts

Inspiration Prize Awards ceremony; a docu-

of the eastern Arctic.

The four-day event began with opening

Evening festivities included the Arctic

mentary premiere of “Trapped in a human Zoo,

based on Abraham ulrikab’s diary;” a silent

receptions at the AXENÉo7 Gallery in

auction; and gala dinner and closing ceremonies

exhibit, sponsored by the Nunavut Arts and

Martin, the Twin Flames and Kamaalukutaat.

March 5.

and the Baffin regional Chamber of Commerce

development, tourism, fisheries, the arts,

and interesting biannual event to the capital,

Gatineau, Quebec, which included an art

Crafts Association. The exhibit also runs until Seminars included topics on economic

Northern transportation, Parks, sovereignty,

scientific research, Northern infrastructure, climate change, mining, and energy.

14

with painters, carvers, craftspeople and fashion

designers from around the eastern Arctic

organizations by attending program sessions

on a wide variety of topics, visit tradeshow

Minister of Fisheries Hunter Tootoo was just one of many dignitaries attending the Northern Lights Business and Cultural Showcase. He was also “auctioned off” as part of the charity auction during the closing ceremonies, along with other Northern items with the most expensive being two tickets for a trip to the Torngat Mountains. © Fisheries and oceans Canada

The arts and culture pavilion was filled

with a charity auction and music provided by harry The labrador North Chamber of Commerce

were joint partners in bringing this lively

bringing people from Nunavut, Nunavik, Nunatsiavut, labrador and southern cities

together.

2016 | 02

lIVING ABoVE & BEyoNd Below: Artists could partake in a two-day art workshop, which included presentations from galleries, Qiviut spinning demonstrations and marketing strategies. Here, a display of painted gourd birds on driftwood from a mini arts session during the tradeshow.

Bottom left: Northern artists displayed their work in the arts and culture pavilion.

Arctic sculptures were available for sale at the Northern Lights Business and Cultural Showcase. © doris ohlmann (4)

News, views, science, culture and more…

west to east

www.arcticjournal.ca

above&beyond, Canada’s Arctic Journal — First Air’s popular inflight magazine.

A B oV E & B E yo N d — C A N A dA’ S A rC T I C J o u r N A l

15

lIVING ABoVE & BEyoNd Minister Tootoo and Premier Taptuna are shown a sealskin coat at the Northern Lights Trade Show in Ottawa in January. © Fisheries and oceans Canada

CMAPS promotes sealing industry

The federal government will provide $150,000

for the Certification and Market Access Program for Seals (CMAPS) to help promote Nunavut’s

seal industry and open new markets in the

European union. Some of the funds will also

be used for a training program at Iqaluit’s

Tukisigiarvik Society.

Fisheries Minister hunter Tootoo and Nunavut

Premier Peter Taptuna signed the agreement January 28. It includes creating a certification

and marketing system so that Inuit products, for example, can be officially recognized and

legally imported in Eu-member countries.

16

2016 | 02

lIVING ABoVE & BEyoNd Bluenose East Caribou. © ENr, GNWT

Caribou action plan in the works

The Sahtu and Wek’eezhii renewable resources

boards in the Northwest Territories await a Day 3 start photo from the 2015 Race. © Fran hurcomb

Action plans for the Cape Bathurst, Bluenose

West and Bluenose East Barren-ground Caribou

caribou management plan on the Bluenose East

herds are currently being developed, with the

standing that was signed last fall.

March 2016.

caribou to act on the memorandum of under-

intent to submit to governments by the end of

dog derby takes place this month

The annual Canadian Championship dog derby will take place this year from March

25-27, alongside the long John Jamboree in yellowknife, Northwest Territories.

A yellowknife tradition dating back

over 60 years, the Canadian Championship

dog derby reflects the evolution of dog

sledding from the heritage of the trap line to a modern-day world-class sporting event.

It celebrates athleticism and endurance

while challenging dog racers to take on the harsh conditions of northern Canada in a 240-km race, held over three days.

dominion diamond is the title sponsor

A B oV E & B E yo N d — C A N A dA’ S A rC T I C J o u r N A l

for this year’s race.

17

lIVING ABoVE & BEyoNd Fred Roots with students during a Students on Ice Expedition in Antarctic in 2009. © Alex Taylor_Students on Ice

Tribute to an Explorer’s life

on March 12, 2016, dr. Fred roots, one of

In 1971, he was appointed Advisor, Environ-

recognized by the historic Explorers Club in

of the Energy Mines and resources and, in

the world’s greatest living explorers, will be New york City with their highest award —

1973 he became Science Advisor to the

for extraordinary contributions in the field

in that position until becoming Science

the Explorer's Medal. The medal is awarded

of exploration, scientific research, or to the

department of the Environment and served

Advisor Emeritus in 1989 until retiring in

welfare of humanity.

2003.

expeditions to the Arctic; was a member of

research Board of the u.S. National Academy

Antarctic Expedition in 1949-1952; still holds

1983 he was President of the International

roots has participated in ground-breaking

the famous Norwegian, British, Swedish

the record (which will never be beaten) for

roots was also a member of the Polar

of Sciences from 1970-83. From 1979 to

Commission on snow and ice and served

the longest unsupported dogsled journey in

on the Science Advisory Board of the Geo-

into the Antarctic interior; and planted a

1976-88. he was a founder of the Inter-

he was co-leader of operation Franklin,

served as its first President (1991-94) and

the world — a six-month scientific journey flag at the North Pole in 1969.

the major study that established the petro-

physical Institute university of Alaska from national Arctic Science Committee and

since 1983 has been chairman of the

leum potential of the Canadian Arctic Islands

Northern Sciences Network of the uNESCo

1956 and 1958, the first integrated geolog-

of over 250 scientific papers and published

in 1955 and leader of operation Stikine in

ical study of the Canadian northern Cordillera.

Man and Biosphere Program. he is author

reports on polar, environmental and global

In 1958, he organized the Polar Continental

change subjects.

until 1971. In 1968, he helped organize

wide as a scientist, leader, visionary, intellect,

Shelf Project and served as its coordinator

Canada’s department of the Environment.

18

mental and Northern Programs, department

he is renowned and respected world-

diplomat, and explorer.

2016 | 02

lIVING ABoVE & BEyoNd

Polynya area options to be debated

Vote calls for unified language system

dozens of translators and interpreters from

all over Canada met in Iqaluit in February for

part of the proceedings, the group voted on the

future of written Inuktitut. They voted to adopt

Apqutauvugut, a conference to discuss standards

a unified roman orthography system in hopes

The goal of the conference was to create a

The conference was hosted by the territory’s

and terminology for the Inuktitut language.

of saving and modernizing their language.

series of recommendations that will guide the

language authority, Inuit uqausinginnik Taiguu-

standardize some words and invent others. As

heritage and Nunavut Tunngavik Inc.

future of the profession as well as working to

siliuqtiit, Nunavut’s department of Culture and

Training programs available for Nunavut Inuit Nunavut’s new Inuit training corporation has

an official Inuit-language name and a seven-

The five board members are: NTI President

Cathy Towtongie, NTI vice president James

A view of the harbour site from Innaarsuit, a very productive fishing and hunting village north of Upernavik. © Alfred Er Jakobsen, September 2009

member board of directors, following inaugural

Eetoolook, Qikiqtani Inuit Association President

Chair and the Inuit Circumpolar Council,

the organization will “provide training and skills

dubbed the Makigiaqta Inuit Training Corp.,

david Ningeongan and Kitikmeot Inuit Association

stakeholders about the North Water Polynya

purpose of enhancing the ability of Inuit to qualify

The Inuit Circumpolar Council, office of the Greenland have begun discussions with Inuit (Pikialaorsuaq in Greenlandic). The North Water Polynya is an area of open water sur-

rounded by sea ice that lies between Green-

meetings held in January.

acquisition programs to Nunavut Inuit for the for, obtain, retain or advance in employment,” says Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI).

PJ Akeeagok, Kivalliq Inuit Association President President Stanley Anablak. Nunavut Premier Peter

Taptuna and Education Minister Paul Quassa,

both named by the Government of Nunavut,

round out the board.

land and Canada in northern Baffin Bay.

The Pikialaorsuaq Commission’s hearings in

Canada’s high Arctic and in Greenland commu-

nities will discuss options available to manage

shipping, tourism, fishing, and non-renewable resource exploration/development.

The Commission will be led by ICC Chair

okalik Eegeesiak, International Commissioner;

former Nunavut Premier Eva Aariak, Canadian

Commissioner; and former Greenland Premier Kuupik Kleist, Greenland Commissioner.

A B oV E & B E yo N d — C A N A dA’ S A rC T I C J o u r N A l

19

lIVING ABoVE & BEyoNd

Eskasoni singer Kalolin Johnson performs “Gentle Warrior” as part of the Rita Joe Song Project at the National Arts Centre in January. © Fred Cattroll

rita Joe National Project inspires youth their community. The NAC invited four other communities to participate as well, asking each

lived history and work of rita Joe as a founda-

rita Joe’s poem. The communities were Kitigan

ways of life under colonialism and the effects

to create their own unique song inspired by

tion for learning about the changes to Indigenous

Zibi — Anishinaabe, Western Quebec; Norway

of the residential School System in Canada.

Cree/Métis from Edmonton, Alberta; and Inuit

found at www.nac-cna.ca/ritajoesong.

house — Cree/Métis, Northern Manitoba; from Iqaluit, Nunavut.

The online videos were launched at the

Voices of youth: The rita Joe Song Project held

at the NAC’s Fourth Stage in January. The event included performances by students from Kitigan

Zibi and Eskasoni, a screening of the videos, a presentation from Jessica Bolduc from the 4rs

In her autobiography, rita Joe, Mi’kmaw poet

youth Movement, and a youth workshop led

to find their voices, share their stories, and

Attendees were also invited to view the

and songwriter, challenged indigenous youth

experiences in residential school, and uses the

The inspiring songs and videos can be

Building resilience to climate change with NC3

Nunavut Climate Change Centre’s new website

by Moe Clark and Jessica Bolduc.

is coming online in March. It will have plain

celebrate their talents. Inspired by this idea,

legacy of hope Foundation’s exhibit “100 years

current research from local Nunavut communities

ontario, asked teachers and students at

hall lobby prior to the event.

and databank will help decision-makers make

from Joe’s home community, to be the catalyst

ment, the NAC has produced a facilitation

structure.

with a ‘big idea’ to inspire the nation. They

in reconciliation Through the Arts, for second-

stronger communities that are resilient to

on First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples’

climatechangenunavut.ca.

the National Arts Centre (NAC) in ottawa, Eskasoni high School, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia,

for a national youth project and to come up

decided to create and record a song based on what “I lost My Talk” means to them and

20

of loss,” which was on display in the Southam In partnership with the 4rs youth Move-

guide, “let Me Find My Talk”: Engaging youth

ary school-aged youth. The guide concentrates

language content on climate change, including as well as a permafrost databank. This research important planning decisions around infra-

The Tukisigiaqta project will help build

climate changes. For more information, visit

2016 | 02

rESourCES

NuNAVuT

Copper-zinc project in the works

BhP Billiton has agreed to spend $40 million

over the next nine years to help Aston Bay holdings ltd. develop a copper-zinc project on Nunavut’s Somerset Island, north of Taloyoak.

The two firms have signed a letter of intent.

The Back river public hearing will start April

that may have originally been larger than six

Cambridge Bay and continue until April 30. The

quality diamonds and a population of coloured

25 at the luke Novoligak Community hall in

review board will hear technical presentations on the project proposal until 9 p.m. April 27.

April 28-30 are reserved for community roundtable discussions.

If the project proceeds, BhP will have a 75 per

Open pit mine testing has begun

will also give Aston Bay $325,000 in cash.

February with two drills testing targets in the

cent interest in the Storm Copper Project. BhP drilling and other exploratory work in the

past suggests the site may contain a viable copper deposit.

NIRB public hearings on gold projects set for April

The Nunavut Impact review Board (NIrB) has announced final public hearing dates for two

Kitikmeot gold projects: TMAC resources ltd.’s

doris North mine and Sabina Gold and Silver

The 2016 Amaruq drill program commenced in

Mammoth lake area. Eventually Agnico Eagle

Diamond drilling program to begin in March

Arctic Star Exploration Corp. has announced

that its partner, North Arrow Minerals Inc., has

reached an agreement with umgeni holdings

International limited (“umgeni”) under which

mineralized zones, testing other nearby targets

for $800,000. umgeni is a private company of

with a focus on developing a second source of

in North Arrow’s redemption diamond Project

which Christopher Jennings, a director of North

open pit ore and further evaluation of regional

Arrow, is a beneficiary of the sole shareholder.

contemplates approximately 75,000 metres

in the lac de Gras region of the Northwest

target areas. The initial 2016 exploration program

of drilling with a budget of approximately

$19 million. The 2016 program also includes

project certificate to allow for an expanded

and an underground exploration ramp.

The NIrB’s public hearing on the project

NWT

umgeni has agreed to acquire a royalty interest

a focus on infilling and expanding the known

engineering studies and permitting activities

six-year mining period over a larger area.

stones is present.

expects to have eight to 10 drills operating with

Corp.’s Back river project.

TMAC wants to amend the doris North

carats. A substantial portion of the parcel is gem

for the construction of an initial open pit mine The company expects to ultimately develop

Amaruq as a satellite operation to Meadowbank,

The redemption diamond Project is located

Territories, approximately 32 km southwest,

and 47 km west of the Ekati and diavik diamond

mines, respectively.

This agreement will allow the team to

immediately move ahead with exploration drilling

programs at the redemption diamond Property.

Planning is underway to conduct a drilling pro-

certificate amendment proposal is set to start

with the potential to begin production in 2019.

Cambridge Bay. NIrB board members will hear

for Amaruq to have similar annual output to

MVLWB approves amendments

13 and a community roundtable April 14.

Meadowbank mine is expected to close in the

Mackenzie Valley land and Water Board (MVlWB)

April 12 at luke Novoligak Community hall in

technical presentations on April 12 and April Sabina proposes a gold mining complex

that would straddle seven sites at its George

The company believes there is good potential Meadowbank in its peak production years. The third quarter of 2018.

and Goose properties, about 400 kilometres

Sample returns viable diamonds

producing 300,000 to 400,000 ounces of gold

dry tonne bulk sample from the Ch-7 kimberlite

south of Cambridge Bay on the mainland,

per year. They would build a network of all-

weather roads between the two properties and a winter road to a “marine laydown area” at Bathurst Inlet.

gram at redemption starting mid-March.

Kennady diamonds has announced that the has approved amendments to its type A land

use permit and type B water licence, allowing

the company to expand its exploration and

Peregrine diamonds ltd. has reported an 814.0

evaluation programs at its Kennady North

pipe from the Chidliak diamond Project. The

from 50 employees.

sample returned an overall diamond grade of 0.88 carats per tonne with a total 717.65 carats

of commercial-size (+1.18 mm) diamonds

project with a new camp capacity of 150, up

The amendment approvals will allow Kennady

North to accommodate a broader range of

activities including core drilling, bulk sampling,

Their plan would stretch over 22 years: a

recovered, including 53 diamonds one carat or

environmental studies and engineering studies.

for 10 to 15 years, and a five-year shutdown

The largest gem quality diamond recovered

13 leases and claims located immediately to the

with no inclusions. Significant diamond breakage

the Gahcho Kué Joint Venture between de Beers

two-year construction period, mining operations and reclamation. They would employ 1,333

people at peak production, including contract workers.

larger and 183 diamonds over 0.50 carat in size. was a 5.33-carat white/colourless octahedron

was observed, including a gem quality diamond

A B oV E & B E yo N d — C A N A dA’ S A rC T I C J o u r N A l

The Kennady North project is comprised of

north and west of the four leases controlled by Canada and Mountain Province.

21

California girls, mother and daughter Donna and Jennifer McCready, bask in the Northern sun while enjoying a springtime outing by dog sled. Š Allen Gordon

Home to nearly 2,500 souls, Kuujjuaq is bustling with life and adventure awaiting right at the edge of town. Š Isabelle Dubois

22

2016 | 02

Weekend Getaway Venturing outside Nunavik’s hub on all fours

By Isabelle Dubois

The largest Inuit community of Nunavik and also the only one in this northern region of Quebec

to be connected to First Air’s network, Kuujjuaq is merely a little over two hours away by plane

from Montreal, making it the gateway to the Arctic for southern travellers going North. Whether

passing through, in town for business or a visit, Kuujjuaq has a lot to offer to those willing to

stay over or make the trip for a weekend out of the ordinary. Extending across the tree line

towards Ungava Bay, the area is covered with a brilliant white blanket of snow throughout winter

and into springtime, making an escapade out of Kuujjuaq by dogsled the perfect initiation to

the Far North and Inuit traditional way of life.

Allen Gordon enjoys a ride with his dog team out on the Nunavik tundra. © Pierre Dunnigan

A B OV E & B E YO N D — C A N A DA’ S A RC T I C J O U R N A L

23

T

hough it is a known fact that most Inuit travel out on the land by snowmobile nowadays during the long northern snow season, a few purists still breed sled dogs

for the sheer joy of riding along with these four-legged loyal companions. For Inuit mushers

like Allen Gordon, who lives in Kuujjuaq and enjoys this traditional activity, taking tourists on such excursions is the perfect excuse to get out of town with his dogs. e extra cargo makes for good practice for his dog team as well. His team won the champion title at the Ivakkak dog sled race in 2014. (See related sidebar for more details.)

More than happy to go stretch their legs, Allen’s furry friends certainly don’t need coaxing to pull their share of the load, howling with enthusiasm right up until their master calls the start with the customary “Uit, uit!” Scrambling eagerly before their passengers as they trot in tandem across the remnants of a boreal forest that still prevails around Kuujjuaq, or in a fan-hitch formation as they get further away from civilization onto the tundra or sea-ice, these husky quadrupeds could undoubtedly take you to the edge of the world if you’d let them.

Whether sitting comfortably on your guide’s sled or steering your own, far from the bustle of the city, breathing in the invigorating fresh air, it becomes easy to understand Crowned Ivakkak 2014 champion, Kuujjuaq musher Allen Gordon praises the efforts of his lead dog Amaruk after crossing the race’s finish line in Tasiujaq. © Pierre Dunnigan

the blissful delight Inuit find while roaming these vast unspoiled lands. Carried by the peaceful silence of the Arctic plain, accompanied by the subtle sounds of the dogs panting and the slide of the sled on the crisp snow, seldomly interrupted by the master musher’s Inuktitut commands, we learn to live in the moment as Inuit have for centuries.

Scanning the sparkly white landscape for signs of wildlife along the way, one can even hope to spot Arctic creatures such as ptarmigans, hares, foxes and wolves, or even encounter one of the small herds of noble prehistoric muskoxen that roam these parts or stray families of caribou wandering the tundra in search of lichen on which to feast.

Chance encounters such as this humble muskox herd are always a possibility for those on the lookout during an excursion out of Kuujjuaq. © Heiko Wittenborn / Nunavik Tourism

24

Before the sun starts to set, your experienced guide will stop to make camp for the night. Whether you end up spending the night in an igloo built by his hands (providing the snow conditions are suitable) or in the cosy warmth of a modern-day tupik — an Inuit circular canvas tent — or cabin, both heated by a woodstove, you’ll be delighted

2016 | 02

All the way from France, husband and wife Robert and Anne Guichard enjoy a warm cup of tea and snacks along the trail by their guide’s support snowmobile and qamutik. © Allen Gordon

Sleeping under the Northern lights in a modern-day tupik. © Isabelle Dubois

by the experience. When darkness falls, thousands of stars twinkle above your head.

this time on four wheels, throughout the lovely northern

And come morning, aer a warm cup of tea and a slice of bannock prepared by Allen’s

village of Kuujjuaq. is will also be the occasion to buy

mother for the trip, you’ll be glad you stayed for the return journey to Kuujjuaq,

local arts and cras to add to the memories you’ll be bring-

courtesy of your new canine friends — another chance to soak up more of the area’s

ing back with you of a weekend you’ll remember for years

stunning scenery.

to come.

Should you choose not to spend the night out on the land, but return to town and stay comfortably nestled at the hotel, be sure to pop your head out and look up, because, with a little luck and no clouds, you may still be able to catch a glimpse of the legendary aurora borealis – the surreal, dazzling northern lights – as they dance across the Arctic sky, dressed in the most stunning green gowns, adorned with purple ribbons, trying to outshine the street lamps.

When you do return to town, there will still be time to socialize with local residents

To book your weekend getaway by dogsled out of Kuujjuaq, contact Inuit Adventures at 514-457-3319 or 1-855-657-3319 toll free or check out available tour packages (including return flights on First Air, hotel overnights and transfers, guide services and all meals) at www.inuitadventures.com.

Inuit Adventures is a subsidiary of the Northern Quebec region’s federation of cooperatives known as FCNQ.

and learn more about their daily lives. Allen will be happy to take you on another tour,

Ivakkak 2016 Nunavik’s Own Dog Sled Race

Organized by the Makivik Corporation, the Ivakkak dog sled race goes through a

few villages of Nunavik each year to honour this traditional Inuit practice and the

Inuit pure-breed huskies, which were once essential to Inuit survival. This year, the teams lead by Inuit mushers from all around Nunavik, will head out of Quaqtaq

on March 31 – weather permitting – and make their way down the Ungava Bay

coast to cross the finish line in Kuujjuaq a few days later, after having covered over

Kuujjuaq master musher Allen Gordon and his teammate Manngi Kooktook raise their arms in victory as they cross the Ivakkak 2014 finish line on Leaf Bay, just outside the Northern Village of Tasiujaq. © Pierre Dunnigan

400 kilometres through the tundra and boreal forest. A true celebration of Inuit culture, this event is one not to be missed!

For more information, check out the race’s official website at www.ivakkak.com or contact Makivik’s head office in Kuujjuaq at 819-964-2925.

A B OV E & B E YO N D — C A N A DA’ S A RC T I C J O U R N A L

25

Magical Passages Sailing Greenland’s Challenging Waters

By Krystina Scheller

Qeqertaq Village. © Krystina Scheller and Frances Brann (2)

26

Travelling by boat is my favourite way to experience Greenland, a place where the highway is the water. Just getting there is an adventure in itself and I have had magical passages I wished would never end. On this trip, Snow Dragon II, the boat I sail, pounded and clawed her way into angry seas and headwinds. However, something about the way the jagged, teeth-shaped mountains rise out of the water makes the first sight of Greenland erase any memory of hardship.

2016 | 02

Approach to Qeqertaq.

O

f course that does not mean the rest of the trip is on flat water. ere are still

took time to find a viable lead. While slowly conning our

frequent gales to avoid and taking the occasional beating when there is nowhere

way between towering bergs, it was amazing to watch the

to hide, not to mention the beautiful but constant navigational hazards that icebergs and sea ice bring. Add the fact that nav charts are scarce, dull moments sailing in Greenlandic waters are few and far between.

Heading north from Nuuk took patience, seasickness remedies and inventing an

local boats navigate the ice maze at high-speed. e harbour itself is full of fishing boats. Visiting boats tie up wherever they can, and eventually get used to being bumped by boats trying to enter and exit the harbour

anchorage in uncharted waters to get protection from a southerly gale. Constant

without slowing down. Snow Dragon ended up raed to

weather checks meant that sometimes instead of settling in for the night, it was time to

Bagheera, a friend’s distinctive black and yellow sailboat that

get under way again in hope of outrunning the next gale, this time a northerly that

happened to be in port at the same time, squeezed in

would have delayed us by three days. e thought of a full night’s sleep consumed me

between fish boats and the fuel dock.

as I untied the dock lines at Maniitsoq harbour. “Couldn’t the gale just wait another eight hours?”

On the way to Ilullisat, I had just finished steering between a rock and the remains of a wreck when I heard the familiar sound of a whale breathing. Next thing I knew three humpback whales were swimming underneath the bow, raising their barnaclecovered heads out of the water to have a closer look. e humpbacks made several passes and then all three fluked in a line, one right aer the other. It was only four in the morning and, in my opinion, “not a bad way to start the day.”

Navigation became more complicated on the approach to Ilullisat Harbour. At first glance the wall of icebergs filling the east side of Disko Bay looked impenetrable and it A B OV E & B E YO N D — C A N A DA’ S A RC T I C J O U R N A L

27

Ilulissat Icefjord. © Krystina Scheller and Frances Brann (2)

To see for myself why tourists from around the world

piece of ice appeared to be a different shade of white, some glistening brightly in the

come to Ilulissat. I walked along the main road through

sun and others more subdued in their tone. ere is no question; Ilulissat Iceord is

town, past sled dogs chained for the summer and children

an incredible display of nature.

playing in the sun, to the pristine board walk leading the way to Ilulissat Iceord, a Unesco World Heritage site.

During a stop at Kangerluk, a settlement on Disko Island, I had to restrain myself from taking home a black, mischievous puppy that quickly endeared himself to me.

I have seen thousands of icebergs and countless glaciers

While the adult sled dogs are required to be chained, the puppies are free to roam and

but nothing like the Iceord. Once on the lookout platform

play. e residents of Kangerluk welcomed us with smiles and questions about our

I could only think about getting closer to the memorizing

plans for the rest of the trip. ey also understood why I was so taken by the young

icebergs trapped by their size behind the terminal moraine

furry creatures that were trying to assert their authority with their mothers looking on,

and ditched the smooth boards for the uneven granite. Each

reminding them when needed who was in charge. e only other visitor was a woman from Qeqertarsuaq, a community further south on Disko Island, who told me she had come to Kangerluk to take advantage of the summer weather and do some walking in the area. I could see why: the sun was out, the grass green and abundant with flowers. It was the perfect summer day. In many ways Disko Island is a smaller version of Greenland, complete with icecap, ords, glaciers and delicate vegetation.

Another place that intrigued me was Qeqertaq, an island tucked away in the northeast corner of Disko Bay. What I had thought would be a mellow pre-dinner walk, turned into a mini expedition when Frances whom I sail with, smiled mischievously and asked, “Is it really an island?”

28

2016 | 02

Of course I knew from the chart that Qeqertaq is an island but there was something

ere were a few boats that were just as passionate about

about the granite hills feeding into the mountains on the headland that made me want

Greenland as I was and prepared to work through any

to double check. And without hesitating, I responded, “I don’t know, let’s find out.”

obstacles they encountered with a smile. At one point

As I walked along the handle of the mirror-shaped island, I could see icebergs on

during our stay in Upernavik, I helped Erik on Bagheera

both sides, including one that was gloriously blue under the water with a discreet white

replace the fuel pump on his engine. Normally I claim no

fan of ice above. e hard granite that formed the island was easy walking, encouraging

mechanical skills whatsoever but when there is no other

us to continue even with our stomachs telling us it is time for dinner.

option, it is amazing what you can do with determination

Before turning around, just short of the summit. I climbed up onto a giant,

and a manual. ough, I think I was really only qualified

rectangular, chunk of granite to take in the view along the spine of the island back

to supply the nail polish needed to mark the timing

towards the blue, red and yellow houses of the town. Sitting in the hot evening sun with

mechanism, tighten a few bolts and drink a celebratory beer

laughter filling the air from the natural lake swimming pool below, I realized, I was

once the job was completed.

doing exactly what the inhabitants of Qeqertaq were doing, enjoying the island.

Crowded is not normally the term that comes to mind when I think of Greenland but when I saw the number of sailboats squeezed into Upernavik Harbour that is exactly what I thought. When sharing an anchorage is a rare occurrence and normally only seeing one to two other foreign boats in larger ports, six boats sitting in Upernavik was a surprise. Most of them were just breezing through on their way to tick the Northwest Passage off their bucket list and head back to warmer waters.

A B OV E & B E YO N D — C A N A DA’ S A RC T I C J O U R N A L

A humpback whale comes alongside for a closer look.

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Krystina looking out over the Ilulissat Icefjord. © Krystina Scheller and Frances Brann (3)

At the small settlement of Kullorsuaq, otherwise known as Devil’s umb for its distinctive granite tower, we once again saw Bagheera. Erik suggested we follow him towards Melville Bay and help him spot creatures, as he had wildlife photographers on board hoping to find polar bears and narwhals that favour being around sea ice. ough I have spent countless hours in ice, it was a new experience to shut the engine off and dri for an extended period raed to another boat. At first it was unnerving but aer having a cup of tea on deck with Erik taking in the glacier lined mountains and the intricacies of the ice surrounding us, I was even able to sleep as the ice occasionally brushed along Snow Dragon’s hull.

Sled Dogs, Ilulissat.

Before parting ways and continuing north, we took advantage of collecting ice to melt for drinking water from the berg that had snuggled up to Bagheera. Luckily the berg did not seem to mind Erik taking a few swings at it with an axe or Frances climbing on top in her waterproof suit to collect the chunks of broken ice.

Apart from the odd seal there was no sign of animal life. e narwhals and other whales normally expected in the area appeared to have been delayed by the slow change

30

2016 | 02

Frances and Erik collect glacier ice to melt for drinking water.

in seasons aer last winter. It seemed like a late arrival of spring and summer to us but

Leaving Greenland is always hard for me and departing

according to a hunter in Kullorsuaq, it was much closer to the winters he remembers

from Carey Oer was particularly difficult. I was too enchanted

growing up.

One of the fascinating and at times frustrating parts of sailing in Arctic waters is that plans can suddenly change at short notice even when the weather is ideal. A few

watching a sleeping polar bear blissfully dreaming on the grassy slope below the bird cliff on Isbjorneo to even want to think about leaving.

minutes aer arriving at Pituffik Glacier, a sizeable chunk of glacier ice started violently

While I watched the bear, I thought to myself how amazing

pounding against the hull. e message to leave now could not have been clearer with

it is that a small out of the way place like Carey Oer makes

each bang and we le as soon as we could wrestle our anchor and chain away from the

getting to Greenland by boat well worth the effort. On

small iceberg that was clearly stronger than us.

a chart, the islands located between the Greenlandic

I scanned the shore for wildlife as we le the bay. At first glance the ridge seemed

mainland and Ellesmere Island are easily missed and give

to be lined with freestanding boulders only to realize it was a herd of muskox. Half the

no hint to the incredible bird and animal life on the mini

herd was high up on the rocks and the other half sunbathing by the beach. I saw no

uninhabited archipelago.

point in going to shore and disturbing them just to get a few close-up photos and

Krystina’s adventures can be followed at www.snowdragon2.com and twitter @SnowDragonII.

enjoyed watching the more energetic ones scramble up the rocky slope with surefooted determination from the boat.

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Pootoogook Qiatsuk Virtuosic artist

By Season Osborne The goose’s long neck is twisted at an almost impossible angle with

its head upside down, looking at its breast. The impressive thing is

that this goose is carved from a single piece of stone!

The goose is the work of Pootoogook Qiatsuk, third generation

master carver. He may have inherited his artistic talent from his father and grandfather, both renowned artists, but he has made his own

mark in the art world as an outstanding carver, print and jewellery maker.

Cape Dorset, ca. 1980 Long-Necked Bird Green stone 5.5 x 2 x 5 in, 14 x 5.1 x 12.7 cm MIA exhibition Courtesy Walker’s Auctions, Ottawa © Dieter Hessel

A B OV E & B E YO N D — C A N A DA’ S A RC T I C J O U R N A L

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Pootoogook Qiatsuk, 2015. © Season Osborne

Q

iatsuk was born in Cape Dorset (Kinngait), Nunavut, in 1959, the eldest of eight. His grandfather Kiakshuk (1886-1966) was one of the original Cape

Dorset carvers, who initially understood the properties of serpentine stone

and developed a unique style, bringing life and form to the rock. Lukta (1928-2004), Qiatsuk’s father, was also a master carver in the forefront of the art form. Lukta was one of the original five who made names for themselves as stencil and stone cut printmakers, when Inuit printmaking emerged from Cape Dorset onto the world stage.

Pootoogook learned from the best. He watched his father carving stone and would help him with the finishing and sanding of his pieces. He was inspired to try working with stone himself.

“I was 11 or 12 when I started carving. My first thing was a very small walrus. I sold it to the Hudson Bay Company. I thought I was rich. ey gave me 50 cents,” said Qiatsuk. rough watching his father, grandfather, and the other carvers in the community, and by practicing on his own, he found his artistic voice. Qiatsuk’s first sale inspired him to carve more and the Hudson’s Bay Company post, now the Northern Store, bought his pieces, and at increasingly higher prices. With each carving, he was revealing his own view of the world and finding his own voice.

John Houston, filmmaker and owner of the Houston North Gallery in Nova Scotia, lived in Cape Dorset as a child and remembers Qiatsuk as quiet and shy: an observer.

“Each of us has a unique personal talent that ends up shining through, and your work reveals your character,” says Houston. “Pootoogook has an uncanny knowledge of how much pressure to put on the rock before it will crack. If you pick up a piece of Bottom left: Artist at work, Pootoogook Qiatsuk carving serpentine, July 2015. © Lee Narraway

Bottom right: Pootoogook Qiatsuk carving demonstration to passengers aboard an Adventure Canada expedition, July 2015. © Lee Narraway

34

stone and try to create what Pootoogook makes, it will end up in pieces on the floor.

Pootoogook is a master.”

Qiatsuk’s talent was further honed when he became apprenticed to the West Baffin Eskimo Co-op as a printmaker in the lithographic shop. He worked with stone and linoleum cut prints for eight years on the annual Cape Dorset print collections.

When his wife, Letia, got a job in Iqaluit, they moved with their three daughters to the territory’s capital. ere was a jewellery and metalwork program at Nunavut Arctic

2016 | 02

Ancient Voices Brooch, copper/sterling silver Courtesy Nunavut Arctic College

College, so Pootoogook applied and was accepted to the three-year course, learning metallurgy and goldsmithing. He graduated in 1999 with the ability to turn jewellery into tiny works of art.

“Right now I’m doing more carving,” Qiatsuk says. “I make jewellery too. Sometimes people ask for something specific, so I’ll make jewellery for somebody. I sometimes teach lino cut at Arctic College too.”

In July 2015, Qiatsuk demonstrated his carving skills on the a deck of an Adventure Canada cruise ship that traversed Hudson Strait, stopping in the artistic communities of Kimmirut and his hometown of Kinngait/Cape Dorset. Qiatsuk’s talents have also taken him beyond the Arctic. Invitations to give soapstone-carving demonstrations have taken him south to Toronto, Montreal, Halifax, and Vancouver.

He was also invited to give carving and linocut printmaking demonstrations in Hungary. In 1999, he and fellow Iqaluit artist Mathew Nuqingaq built a seven-foot tall inuksuk at Nádasdy Castle, now a renowned museum, in Hungary. Nuqingaq and Qiatsuk constructed the inuksuk from stone cut from a nearby Hungarian quarry.

However, the centrepiece was stone they had brought from Nunavut.

In the fall of 2014, Qiatsuk accompanied Tom Webster of Iqaluit Fine Arts to

find what is yours. He does that in his exquisite birds. e word I’d use for him is ‘virtuosic’.”

demonstrate sculpting and printmaking at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians

Two of Qiatsuk’s carvings are in the National Gallery of

and Western Art in Indianapolis, Indiana. While there, Qiatsuk did some sculpting

Canada in Ottawa. ey aren’t carvings of birds, but of seals.

and ran a small edition of linocuts. Visitors were very excited about the printmaking

Christine Lalonde, Curator of Indigenous Art, knows those

because they watched the transition from the design creation to the linocut, to the

pieces well.

printing process, and then had the opportunity to buy the print aerward.

“Pootoogook has a wide range of subject matter. He’s quite unique, and you recognize

“e National Gallery is fortunate to have outstanding early examples of Pootoogook’s work. We’ve had them on

his work almost immediately. But, if given his choice, I think he would make birds. He

display as part of our collection at the gallery many times

also makes interesting transformational work,” says Webster. “You see some fundamental

over the years,” says Lalonde. “ey never fail to delight

Inuit culture coming through in his work, and he’s very good at that. e word that

visitors with their grace and playfulness. It inspires sincere

comes to mind is ‘inspired’.”

wonder when we display such artistically challenging

Houston offers a reason Qiatsuk may have developed such excellence in his bird carvings. “When you come from a family that has done something remarkable, you

compositions.”

Qiatsuk’s style uniquely translates from graphics, to sculpting, to carving, and to jewellery, and each genre reveals the mark of a master.

Bowl and lid — Qiatsuk’s second year project for the Jewellery Making and Metal Work program at Nunavut Arctic College.

Copper/ muskox horn with a sterling silver bezel around the horn, 6 in x 6 in.

Courtesy Nunavut Arctic College

A B OV E & B E YO N D — C A N A DA’ S A RC T I C J O U R N A L

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36

2016 | 02

Historical Traditions

C U LT U R E

Reviving Amulet Use in the Central Arctic

The concept of inuat — an Inuktitut word roughly translatable as ‘inhabitants,’ or ‘dwellers’ — once provided the

foundation for Inuit belief and lifestyle. Every object was seen as being imbued with a particular spirit or force —

its ‘inua’ — that defined both the object’s inner spirit and its relationship to other objects and people. To perceive the

world as being filled with inuat, is to observe one’s surrounding landscape as a complex and sometimes frightening

domain of animated forces, each of which demand interaction, negotiation, and, in some cases, avoidance.

Kanmut sewing while wearing a parka adorned with caribou teeth amulets.

CMC/Wilkins, 51570

A Copper Inuit amulet collected

by Harold Noice c. 1920. © Brendan Griebel

A B OV E & B E YO N D — C A N A DA’ S A RC T I C J O U R N A L

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C U LT U R E Elders from across the Kitikmeot share their memories of amulets.

There were many traditional practices

for Inuit to guide their daily interaction with

these spirits. These included shamanism, song

and spoken ritual, and the use of taboos. One

form of negotiating spirits particularly popular among Inuit of the Central Arctic (Inuinnait and Netsilingmiut) was the use of amulets.

An amulet is an object that is worn because

it gives its owner certain new abilities or

improves an ability that the individual already

has. While many forms of amulets are used, their power is usually derived from the spirits

associated with the materials from which they

are constructed.

A bond is created between an amulet’s

resident spirits and its wearer, channelling certain characteristics and material qualities

between them. Amulets can embody the

skills. A woman wishing specific qualities upon

ancestors, animals or other items from the

of materials representing desirable physical

hunting, for example, might don an amulet

a flat and handsome nose, or an ermine skin

spirits of many different materials, including natural world. A man seeking to better his

made from animals known for their predatory

As amulets had very specific functions and

her unborn child might wear an amulet belt

were only useful in particular situations, most Inuit

characteristics (for example, a rabbit’s head for

amulets were sewn into clothing or worn on a

for fleet-footedness).

owned more than one of them. These multiple belt or sash so their wearer could remain under their influence and protection at all times.

With the introduction of Christianity, the

practice of using amulets began to disappear.

Amulets became symbols of Inuit interaction

with non-Christian spirits, and were layered

with social stigma. While detailed knowledge regarding traditions of amulet use has been

lost in the Central Arctic, the practice continues

on a smaller scale, sheltered from public knowledge.

In 2014, the Kitikmeot Heritage Society

(KHS) started a project to revive discussions of

amulet use and to bring the practice back out

of the shadows. By combining knowledge from historic ethnographies and interviews with

contemporary elders, the project tried to

determine the role and importance of amulets

to Inuit lifestyle. Elders from across the Kitikmeot region shared their stories of amulets, many

recollecting a time when amulets still had the

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A workshop participant displays his completed amulet.

2016 | 02

C U LT U R E Simon Qingnaqtuq prepares to perform in a traditional dance suit adorned with a weasel skin amulet for fleet-footedness.© Brendan Griebel (3)

power to shape an individual’s life. It was rec-

connections surrounding amulet use. Armed

world and spiritual forces is key to activating

elders to construct their own amulets to target

ognized that human regard for the natural the power of amulets, with Kugaruuk elder

Bartholome Nirlungayuk commenting that,

“when amulets are treated with respect, they can be of use.”

On this advice from elders, the KHS has been

actively developing a program to introduce amulets back into the lives of Nunavummiut.

This entails not only teaching about the historical traditions of amulet use, but also developing appreciation for a cultural practice that allowed

Inuit to utilize the natural world and use its

qualities to build themselves into more capable

people.

During the spring of 2015, the KHS hosted

the first in a series of Cambridge Bay workshops

for participants to learn the language and material

with this knowledge, participants worked with

and strengthen their physical, social or emotional lives. This workshop provided an exercise in both

re-connecting with the natural world and

re-thinking personality as a series of traits that can be augmented, helped and healed through

concentrated intervention and invention. In

future, the KHS hopes to use workshops similar

to these as tools to address issues of mental wellness, and develop stronger connections between the natural world and Inuit from across

the territory.

Brendan Griebel

The Kitikmeot Heritage Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Inuinnait culture, heritage and language. They operate from the May Hakongak Cultural Centre located in Cambridge Bay, Nunavut.

A B OV E & B E YO N D — C A N A DA’ S A RC T I C J O U R N A L

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40

2016 | 02

Young Leader’s Summit

YOUTH

Investing in the effects of climate change in the North In the summer of 2015, eight representatives

facilitated and occurred naturally during and

to cook and clean up meals. They discovered

The young leaders travelled as a family unit,

northern landscape together embarking on a

from the three territories gathered together in

even after the summit.

Northern Climate Change. This group of leaders

camping along the way and working together

Yellowknife for the Young Leader’s Summit on

was welcomed by staff from Ecology North

their own strengths as they explored the fossil hunt, forest fire research and talks with

and embarked on a travelling road trip from

Yellowknife to Enterprise and back again. The

team stopped in Fort Providence, Behchoko, Kakisa, Enterprise, the K’atlodeeche First Nation

and Hay River. Along the way they met with

local experts to learn about a variety of climate

change related topics such as permafrost, fishing, water quality, northern agriculture, and forest

fire research. The summit also incorporated

opportunities to engage with local elders,

scientists, and government officials in a variety of ways. Dialogue and networking between

and among participants and presenters was

The group engages in forest fire research.

L to R: Kat Thomas, Raven Firth, Teresa Tee, Stephanie Young, Alex James, Shauna Morgan and Angela Code. © Marissa Oteiza (2)

A B OV E & B E YO N D — C A N A DA’ S A RC T I C J O U R N A L

Above: Young Leaders enjoy the view of Alexandra Falls L to R: Aletta Leitch, Carmen Barrieau, Teresa Tufts, Naomi Peterson, Raven Firth and Stephanie Young.

41

YOUTH

Young Leaders pose in the balcony of the Legislative Assembly with Bob Bromley. L to R: Angela Code, Naomi Peterson, Raven Firth, Alex James, Carmen Barrieau, Kat Thomas, Aletta Leitch, Teresa Tufts and Stephanie Young.

Summit participants with local Elder Dorothy Buckley.

Young Leader’s prepare a meal together with local elders.

L to R: Naomi Peterson, Kat Thomas, Teresa Tufts, Aletta Leitch, Alex James and Stephanie Young. They also made some traditional meals such as cooking local fish over a fire and sharing a meal of bannock and dried fish. Š Marissa Oteiza (4)

Raven Firth and Carmen Barrieau fossil hunt in Enterprise.

local elders. They incorporated technology and

hope that local agriculture provides in the fight

pictures along the way, and blogging their

As a group the participants were also tasked

social media into this experience by taking

for sustainability in the North.

experience online through Facebook and

with writing a formal collective declaration

participants were tasked with creating a small

can act on Climate Change. This declaration was

Twitter. At the conclusion of the summit presentation that included a map of pictures

that identified key ways leaders in the North

but we can meet these needs through renewable

energy. Lastly, territorial governments have an

opportunity to take a leadership role in respond-

ing to climate change. Policies should focus on

both mitigation and adaptation; governments

should invest in renewable resources and cease

delivered at the concluding press conference.

support for the further development of fossil

Communities need to develop and strengthen

The eight young ladies who attended the

fuel industries.

and descriptions of the places they had

The four main points were that Northern

activity. Some even conducted interviews of

local agricultural and animal harvesting

Summit enjoyed the opportunity to connect

This includes sustainable local wild harvesting

to create a network of individuals who are in-

travelled to and what they learned from each

the participants and elders they met along

the way.

Highlights of this summit included trudging

through burn sites in Kakisa alongside local

scientists to discover vegetation growing after a devastating forest fire and using a drill to get

systems to improve food security in the North.

of animals and plants with a basis in cultural

and language revitalization. Secondly, Climate Change education should be prominent in

elementary and secondary school curriculum

with other leaders from across the territories

vested in the effects of Climate Change in the

North. The Summit is scheduled to happen

every two years, with the next one taking place in the summer of 2017. We hope to continue

samples of permafrost right beside the Prince

and communities are encouraged to include

with the travelling Summit style and journey to

took a tour of the newly developed Northern

learning programs. Thirdly, northerners must

Marissa Oteiza

of Wales Northern Heritage Centre. The group

Farm Training Institute just outside of Hay River

in which Summit delegates learned about the

42

climate change education in their on-the-land

recognize that we have significant energy needs

for space heating, electricity and transportation,

Fort Smith with 10 to 15 participants.

Marissa Oteiza is the Hay River Office Manager at Ecology North.

2016 | 02

ARTS

Robert Houle Premises for Self Rule: Treaty No. 1, 1994 acrylic, photo emulsion, vinyl lettering on canvas, Plexiglas 152 x 304 x 5 cm Collection of the Winnipeg Art Gallery, G-96-11 abc

Indigenous Art at the Winnipeg Art Gallery

Curatorial appointments support Inuit Art Centre

The Winnipeg Art Gallery (WAG) is Canada’s

oldest civic art gallery and home to over

27,000 works spanning centuries and media, including the world’s largest public collection

Visitors will experience Canada’s Arctic through

exhibitions, programs, research, education, and

partnerships with Inuit artists and arts organi-

over 13,000 carvings, drawings, prints, textiles,

enabling people from northern and southern

and new media is matched by an outstanding record of 160 exhibitions and 60 publications.

To celebrate the art, culture, and land of

the Inuit, and to honour the people who have created these works, the WAG is building an

44

art and culture.

of contemporary Inuit art. Amassed over the last 60 years, this amazing Inuit collection of

Julie Nagam.

Photo courtesy of Winnipeg Art Gallery.

appreciation, and understanding of Indigenous

zations in the North. The Centre will be a bridge, communities to meet, learn, and work together.

It will also act as a cultural hub promoting

economic development and tourism.

The creation and ongoing evolution of the

Centre is predicated on strong partnerships. It

Inuit Art Centre, the first of its kind in the

has been informed and shaped by stakeholders

ing, the Inuit Art Centre will foster awareness,

throughout Canada, and will continue to be

world. Situated next to the existing WAG build-

in Manitoba, Nunavut, across the North, and

2016 | 02

ARTS

David Ruben Piqtoukun Airplane, 1995 Brazilian soapstone, African wonderstone 26 x 36.5 x 27.5 cm Collection of the Winnipeg Art Gallery, G-97-17 abc © Ernest Mayer

Jaimie Isaac.

Photo courtesy of Winnipeg Art Gallery.

guided by a representative circle of advisors. It

is a collective endeavour that underscores our

commitment to the North and its people.

As planning continues for the Inuit Art

Centre, the Gallery is expanding related pro-

gramming. In 2015, the WAG’s curatorial team

grew with two new specialists: Dr. Julie Nagam and Jaimie Isaac.

“Both positions support the WAG’s Indigenous

art mandate, contributing towards the Inuit Art

Nagam is responsible for cutting edge

Centre initiative,” states Dr. Stephen Borys,

research, and developing courses, exhibitions,

“There is a growing trend of global recog-

Indigenous art both at the University and the

WAG Director and CEO.

nition of the innovative and dynamic contribution

Indigenous artists, curators, and scholars have to offer, and I would like to continue to be at

the forefront of this artistic and curatorial renaissance,” comments Dr. Nagam in a Winnipeg

and programs designed to advance the area of

Gallery’s permanent collection. On view until

changing initiative,” says Borys.

Jaimie Isaac joins the WAG as the Curatorial

Canada Council for the Arts.

through a two-year program funded by the “The WAG has an important history with

Nagam’s portfolio includes research and teach-

regards to Indigenous arts in Canada,” comments

and curatorial and exhibition work at the WAG.

big part of the residency is to engage and

The first of its kind in Canada, the position is made

possible in part with the support of Michael

May 22, these paintings, prints, and photographs

span the past 40 years, providing reflections

influenced and informed by Treaty No. 1 Territory and treaty relations.

“Jaimie Isaac’s work will inspire dialogue

in our community to educate, critique, and

celebrate the complexities of the Canadian

identity, Indigenous culture, and issues that

collaborate with Indigenous communities to

To learn more about the Inuit Art Centre,

create exhibitions that are meaningful, relevant,

and dynamic.”

who continues to champion contemporary art

and programs in partnership with local and

across the country.

disciplinary art by Indigenous artists from the

Isaac in a Winnipeg Free Press interview. “A

Nesbitt, Chairman and President of Montrose Mortgage Corporation, and philanthropist,

Isaac’s first project and exhibition at the

be spearheading this international, game-

and for Canada — and the WAG is proud to

a joint appointment with the University of

ing in the History Department at UWinnipeg

beyond.

WAG, We Are On Treaty Land, gathers inter-

Resident of Indigenous and Contemporary Art

Winnipeg.

thereby raising the profile of artists locally and

Gallery. “This is an important first for Winnipeg

Free Press article. Nagam serves as the Chair

in History of Indigenous Arts in North America,

ing contemporary Indigenous art for the WAG,

Isaac’s work includes developing exhibitions

national Indigenous organizations; and acquir-

A B OV E & B E YO N D — C A N A DA’ S A RC T I C J O U R N A L

motivate art production today,” states Borys.

Nagam and Isaac’s work, and current WAG

exhibitions, visit wag.ca.

Submitted by the Winnipeg Art Gallery 45

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2016 | 02

SCIENCE The expedition huts used by Robert Peary at Fort Conger are threatened by the effects of climate change. © Dr. Peter Dawson

Saving Our Arctic Heritage

What do you think the biggest threat to our

slow … and the end product are simple two-

the world, where it is human activity, in Canada’s

But now archaeologists, computer modellers,

Arctic heritage sites is? Unlike most parts of

Arctic it is climate change. Where the freezing

dimensional images.

several times around 1899 as a staging post for

and geomatics engineers from the University

Conger consists of three dilapidated wooden

temperatures once preserved delicate structures

of Calgary have been using terrestrial laser-

now destroying them.

arctic sites in astonishing detail, and in a way

and organic materials, rising temperatures are Among the most vulnerable sites are coastal

settlements. In addition to the damaging effect

of thawing soil and permafrost, at coastal

scanning technology to record and preserve that allows the creation of life-sized replicas, which people can move about and study.

sea levels, reductions in sea ice, and bigger

Fort Conger – a key Arctic exploration site

which can literally wash away significant

Fort Conger. Located in a remote northeastern

locations rising temperatures also mean rising waves — resulting in more coastal erosion

for two years, and it was later used by Peary

The first site to be recorded in this way was

his attempts to reach the Pole. Today Fort

huts a mere 30 feet from the shore of Discovery Harbour, and a precarious 10 feet above the high water mark. Further complicating matters

is the presence of arsenic trioxide, a toxic legacy

of the expedition, originally used to preserve natural history specimens. Removing the contaminated soil would pose a significant

threat to heritage resources present at the site.

In 2010, Parks Canada asked Dr. Peter Dawson

of the University of Calgary to investigate the

corner of Ellesmere Island, about 100 km south

possibility of using 3D laser scanning to record

future generations? So far archaeological

western exploration of the High Arctic.

Levy of the Faculty of Environmental Design

graphs, has been the only option, but it is

Franklin Bay Expedition, 25 men lived there

portions of sites in a single season.

How can we preserve these places for

surveying, making maps and taking photo-

of Alert, it is a key heritage site for early First built in 1881 as part of the Lady

A B OV E & B E YO N D — C A N A DA’ S A RC T I C J O U R N A L

the site. Dawson and his colleagues Dr. Richard

and Chris Tucker, President of SarPoint Engineering in Calgary, partnered with CyArk, an

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48

2016 | 02

SCIENCE Computer reconstruction of a Thule whalebone house.

Image courtesy Dr. Richard Levy and Dr. Peter Dawson, University of Calgary

international non-profit organization dedicated

to using new technologies such as laser-scanning to create a free online 3D library of world heritage sites in danger of being lost, whether through

climate change, as in the case of Fort Conger;

war; or simply the ravages of time.

The result is a 3D image which can be viewed

interactively on CyArk’s website at cyark.org/ projects/fort-conger or in an immersive 3D viewing room reminiscent of the ‘holodeck’ on

Star Trek. In this way the entire building can be

‘reconstructed’ and studied in detail elsewhere.

Preserving Inuit architecture

The technique has also been used by Dawson and

Levy to record and study Inuit architecture. In one case they have been able to use it in conjunction

with computer modelling to reconstruct buildings that have long since disappeared.

In the late 12th or early 13th century, the Thule

people, ancestors of contemporary Inuit and

Eskimo groups of the North American Arctic and

Greenland, expanded eastward from the Bering

Strait region into Canada’s Arctic. Because there

was little driftwood available, they built winter houses from whalebones — with a framework

of bone over a house pit, then covered by thick layers of hide and turf. The collapsed remains of such houses have been found, but few exist intact.

Scanning of whale skeletons and computer

modelling was successfully used to reconstruct ‘virtual reality models’ of the houses, which

could then be used to work out how they

would have been constructed, and what they looked like inside.

Similar studies have been done of igluryuaq

or winter sod houses of the Inuvialuit people

in the Mackenzie delta area, preserving Inuit

heritage which would otherwise have not only

been completely lost, but not even properly understood.

David Millar

David Millar is a Research Associate with the Arctic Institute of North America. arctic.ucalgary.ca

A B OV E & B E YO N D — C A N A DA’ S A RC T I C J O U R N A L

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BOOKSHELF

Le Nord m’inspire – Preserving Nunavik’s natural and cultural heritage CPAWS QC chapter / SNAP QC – Society for nature and parks Canada October 2015

“Le Nord m’inspire” is an illustrated collection

of inspiring poetry and images from Quebecers and Nunavimmiut demonstrating the impor-

tance of preserving and respecting Nunavik’s

unique wilderness, landscapes, parks,

protected areas and the Inuit traditional

way of life and interesting and amazing peo-

ple who live there. Publisher SNAP Québec,

the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS, SNAP in French), is a non-profit organization

dedicated to protecting Canada’s wilderness. SNAP Québec published the book to emphasize Inuit

Wild Eggs: A Tale of Arctic Egg Collecting

leadership in designing a vast network of protected areas to the benefits of northern communities.

To learn more about SNAP Québec, visit: www.snapqc.org.

Suzie Napayok-Short Illustrated by Jonathan Wright November 2015

As soon as Akuluk steps off the plane in

Nunavut and sees all the exciting animals on

the tundra, Akuluk can’t wait to travel with her

Ukkusiksalik: The People’s Story David F. Pelly Dundurn Press, January 2016

Ukkusiksalik (Wager Bay) in Nunavut is a national park,

established to preserve a beautiful and historic piece of

wilderness. In earlier times, it was the principal hunting

ground for several Inuit families in a landscape crisscrossed by

grandparents to hunt for wild eggs. Akuluk

explorers, whalers, missionaries, Mounties, and traders. Since

to collect them properly, and the delicious

Inuit traditional knowledge of this region on foot, by sea-

learns about the different types of eggs, how

ways they can be prepared. With full colour illustrations throughout, in Wild Eggs: A Tale of

the 1980s, David F. Pelly has been exploring and documenting kayak and with Inuit companions. In this book, Pelly weaves

together stories from Inuit elders with historical accounts to

Arctic Egg Collecting the traditional Inuit land

provide the complete history of Ukkusiksalik. The reader sees

excursion for family members out on the land.

telling stories through the generations for centuries.

skill of gathering eggs becomes an exciting

Traditional Inuit art captures the beauty, truth and spirit of Canada’s Arctic

a new way of seeing the world through the oral traditions of

“Bear Mother and Child”

by Norman Quamautuq, Pangnirtung Nunavut.

northern images A Division of Arctic Co-operatives Ltd.

Yellowknife 867-873-5944

Visit Our Website www.northernimages.ca A B OV E & B E YO N D — C A N A DA’ S A RC T I C J O U R N A L

Supporters and Promoters of Inuit and Dene artists and their art

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2016 | 02

GUEST EDITORIAL

A made-in-the-North strategy against the impacts of climate change I grew up on the banks of the beautiful Mackenzie River, spending many summer days

at my favourite swimming holes and fishing

with my friends and brothers. Like many

Northerners, my connection to the land has

helped shape who I am and played a role in my

political career as the first two-term Premier of the Northwest Territories.

As I have grown and changed since those

days on the Mackenzie River without a care in

the world, so has the environment we live in. The

carefree days of childhood seem very far away

given the very real impacts of climate change © GNWT

on the daily lives of northerners. From eroding

shorelines of the Beaufort Sea, to melting permafrost, low water levels due to warm

winters and dry summers, and devastating

forest fire seasons — we are victims of climate

in Canada, the NWT still has not recovered to the

change such as low water levels affecting our

With diamond production set to decline as

leave the Government of the Northwest Territories

unlikely in the near term, the economic outlook

fiscal prudence is not only necessary but critical

will, in turn, limit government revenues, mean-

change. The costs associated with climate

hydro production and intense forest fire seasons vulnerable to increased costs at a time when

regime that balances environmental responsi-

levels seen prior to the 2008 global recession.

bility with economic development, to build a

existing mines mature and oil and gas production

mitigating the impacts of climate change

for the next five to 15 years is uncertain. This

prosperous foundation for the future while across the territory.

Northerners, whether we have descended

from those who have lived on this land for

to our future.

ing fewer financial resources and less flexibility

millennia or chosen to make this our home, are

affects Northerners, our infrastructure and

services or infrastructure investment.

sufficiency but we cannot fight the impact of

Climate change in the Northwest Territories

limits our economic growth and investment

when it comes to spending on programs and

There is no quick fix. Strategic spending on

resilient people. We pride ourselves on self-

climate change on our environment without

desirability. Changing environmental conditions

infrastructure and other projects is necessary

the help of Canada and the world. Northerners

and homes. A lack of strategic infrastructure

development and jobs into the territory in the

opportunity to carve out a life in the North that

affect our roads, airports, schools, health centres

to attract economic investment, resource

impedes responsible economic development,

long-term, growing the NWT economy and

economic driver, the natural resource sector.

living. In order for future generations to build

particularly when it comes to our biggest

The NWT economy is small and heavily reliant

on the natural resource sector, especially

mining, which is extremely sensitive to global economic conditions. Unlike other jurisdictions

potential revenues and lowering the cost of

successful lives here in the NWT, we need to

make strategic investments in infrastructure,

in partnership with the Federal Government, along with a made-in-the-North regulatory

A B OV E & B E YO N D — C A N A DA’ S A RC T I C J O U R N A L

want responsible development and the provides for their families, communities, and

future generations. We want our environment

and land to be healthy for our children, grandchildren and beyond.

Bob McLeod

Premier of the Northwest Territories

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INUIT FORUM

Love and kindness in the midst of violence

© Letia Obed

Love and kindness are timeless concepts. They are universally understood and appreciated as foundations for healthy lives and communities. I believe the love and kindness Inuit have for one another is what best defines and characterizes our society. Why, then, do we find ourselves too often having to contemplate the terrible acts of anger and hate that have and continue to be perpetrated within our families? The murdered and missing Inuit women and girls of the past and present demand that we consider this question. The violence that ebbs and flows in our communities like a vicious tide demands that we mobilize to address its root causes lest we be washed away with its power.

Certainly colonialism in all its facets is a root cause. Cultural genocide, relocation, marginalization, and lack of power over our lives can help explain why our society is affected by violence and why violence has been generated within our communities. Historical trauma is a term that is often used to describe how present dysfunction is connected to past, traumatic events. Overcoming historical trauma is a tremendous challenge before us. A key opportunity to help break this cycle will be the imminent federal inquiry on murdered and missing Indigenous women and girls. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said emphatically that “Indigenous lives matter.” I expect the inquiry process to reflect this intimate but symbolic statement from the Crown. It is a process that, no matter how difficult, is entirely necessary for many of our people to be able to listen, learn, remember, and begin to heal.

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© Patricia D’Souza/ITK

“I think of all of our beautiful Inuit children and do not find it acceptable that they have a greater likelihood of being exposed to violence based on their gender, ethnicity or where they live.”

For our part, we must not believe all societal problems are larger than our ability as Inuit to help solve them. Answers to any problem of such magnitude are usually complex, with no single solution or intervention able to transform the societal challenge into an inclusive solution. Each one of us has an individual role to play in making our communities healthier and safer, especially for our most vulnerable. I think of all of our beautiful Inuit children and do not find it acceptable that they have a greater likelihood of being exposed to violence based on their gender, ethnicity or where they live. We say that we love our children and we must challenge ourselves to fight to any end necessary to prove it to them.

The level of sexual abuse, physical abuse, and violence in our communities is unacceptable. As an Inuk, I believe I must play an active and meaningful role in preventing violence, preventing abuse, and protecting those who are most vulnerable. I will listen and learn from the voices of those who will inform the inquiry, and will do all I can to implement its recommendations on a personal and professional level. Historical trauma ends with me. Historical trauma ends with us. Historical trauma ends when love and kindness define and characterize a childhood, a relationship, a community, a region, a people.

Natan Obed

President, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami

Monday, March 7, 2016 National Arts Centre 6 pm to 10 pm

www.itk.ca/atota

2016 | 02

ᓄᓇᓕᓐᓅᖓᔪᖅ, ᐊᑲᕐᕆᓇᖅᑐᖅ, ᐊᑐᐃᓐᓇᖃᑦᓯᐊᖅᑐᖅ

Nunallaat, Ihuarniq, Atuttiarniq Community, Comfort, Convenience

ᑲᓲᑎᓯᒪᔪᑦ ᓄᓇᕐᔪᐊᑉ ᖄᖓᒍᑦ

Haniliriikhutik Hilarjuap Qulaani Spanning the Top of the World

cshw5g6 w8{ kx3P, cshw5g6, kNK5 Qausuittuq Inns North, Resolute Bay, Nunavut

1.867.252.3900 Qausuittuq@InnsNorth.coop

EW N R E UND GEMENT MANA

www.InnsNorth.com ☎ 1-888-To-North ᓄᓇᓕᓐᓂ-ᓇᒻᒥᓂᕆᔭᐅᔪᑦ ᑐᔪᕐᒥᕖᑦ, ᑲᑐᔾᔨᖃᑎᒌᑦᑐᑦ ᐅᑭᐅᖅᑕᖅᑐᓕᒫᒥ.

Nunalinni-namminirijaujut tujurmiviit, kajjiqatigiittut upiuqtaqtulimaami.

Locally-owned hotels, working together across the Arctic.