2016 | 01 • $5.95
Chasing the Aurora Borealis How to Capture the Arsaniit
Sailing Classroom Journey of Mutual Respect
Arviat’s Ancestors Out on the Land to Settlement Life
Active Inuit Wisdom
Iglu Building Project
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Jobie Tukkiapik / JW bexW4
Brock Friesen / XÇ4 K‰n8
Dear Guest, Happy New Year to you! I hope you celebrated the start of 2016 in good spirits with family and friends. As we enter a new year, we also celebrate our accomplishments and successes of the year past. 2015 was a year of significant change and strategic planning with new business initiatives being implemented proving a resounding success. In 2016, we will build on these successes and make this the year during which we complete our turnaround and implement our $100 Million fleet investment program by modernizing and standardizing our fleet. We will specialize on the Boeing 737-400s, introducing another of these types to our fleet in March, and our newer, quieter, more comfortable and more fuel efficient ATR 42-500s. These aircraft have a modern flight deck, fly faster and provide more payload than the current generation we operate. The first ATR 42-500 flights will be operating this month on the Yellowknife-Hay River route. Gradually the ATR 42-500s will replace our ATR 42300s on all routes. Looking forward, 2016 is a special year for those of us at First Air. We celebrate 70 years of reliable service and unsurpassed hospitality to our Northern communities. We look forward to celebrating this occasion in style, with events in the communities we serve, online activities and contests, promotions and celebrations throughout the year. Stay tuned by following us on Twitter or Facebook and keep up-to-date with announcements on how you can join in the celebration of our 70th anniversary. During this year, we will also continue assessing key business factors and strategic options by identifying opportunities, providing efficient and sustainable air transportation services and raising the bar on customer service and operational efficiencies. As a proud member of the community, First Air will also continue to sponsor and support a variety of community events, big and small, across Northern Canada in 2016. We recognize our responsibility as a key corporate citizen and partner of the communities and the people we serve. Thank you for your continued support. We remain focused on strengthening our operation and customer service levels to maintain our position as the Airline of the North.
Brock Friesen First Air President & CEO
ᑐᕌᖅᑐᑦ ᐃᑭᒪᔪᓄᑦ,
ᐅᑭᐅᒥ ᓄᑖᒥ ᐊᑐᕆᐊᓕᖅᑎᓪᓗᒍ ᖁᕕᐊᓱᑦᑎᐊᕆᑦᓯ ᕼᐋᐱ ᓂᐊ ᔨᐊᖅᐸᑦᓯ! ᐅᑭᐅᖓ 2016 ᐊᑐᕆᐊᕐᓂᖓᓂ ᖁᕕᐊᓱᒍᑎᒋᑦᓯᐊᓚᐅᖅᑐᒃᓴᐅᕙᓯ ᐱᖃᑎᒋᓪᓗᒋᑦ ᐃᓚᒋᔭᓯ ᐱᖃᓐᓇᕆᔭᓯᓗ. ᓄᑖᒧᑦ ᐅᑭᐅᒧᑦ ᐃᑎᕆᐊᓕᕐᒥᑎᓪᓗᑕ, ᐅᕙᒍᑦᑕᐅᖅ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᑦᑎᓐᓄᑦ ᐃᖏᕐᕋᑦᑎᐊᖅᓯᒪᓂᖏᓂᒃ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐱᔭᕇᖅᑕᐅᓯᒪᓕᓚᐅᖅᑐᓂᒃ ᐅᑭᐅᕆᓚᐅᖅᑕᑦᑎᓐᓂ ᖁᕕᐊᓱᒍᑎᖃᓚᐅᕐᒥᒐᑦᑕ. 2015 ᐅᑭᐅᖓ ᐊᑐᖅᑎᓪᓗᒍ ᐊᖏᔪᒻᒪᕆᖕᒥ ᐊᓯᔾᔩᓯᒪᓕᖅᑎᑦᑎᓚᐅᕋᑦᑕ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᓄᑖᖑᔪᓂᒃ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᖑᓕᕈᒪᔪᓂᒃ ᐸᕐᓇᐅᑎᓕᐊᖑᓯᒪᔪᑦ ᐊᑐᓕᖅᑎᑕᐅᕙᓪᓕᐊᓂᖏᑕ ᓇᓗᓇᐃᒻᒪᕆᒃᑐᑎᒍᑦ ᐃᖏᕐᕋᑦᑎᐊᕐᓂᖃᓚᐅᕐᒪᑕ. 2016 ᐊᑐᓕᖅᑎᓪᓗᒍ, ᑕᒪᒃᑯᓂᖓ ᐃᖏᕐᕋᑦᑎᐊᕐᓂᖃᓚᐅᖅᑐᓂᒃ ᐱᕈᖅᑎᑦᑎᕙᓪᓕᐊᓂᐊᕋᑦᑕ ᑖᓐᓇᓗ ᐅᑭᐅᖅ ᐊᑐᖅᑎᓪᓗᒍ ᐱᔭᕇᖅᓯᓯᒪᓕᖅᑎᑦᑎᒋᐊᕐᓂᐊᕐᖢᑕ ᐊᓯᐊᒍᑦ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᕆᓕᕆᐊᓚᐅᖅᑕᑦᑎᓐᓂᒃ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐊᑐᓕᖅᑎᓪᓗᑎᒍᑦ $100ᒥᓕᐊᓐᑖᓚᑐᖅᑐᑎᒃ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖁᑎᔅᓴᓄᑦ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᖃᓕᕐᓂᐊᕐᖢᑕ ᓄᑕᐅᓕᖅᑎᑦᑎᒋᐊᕐᓂᖅᑎᒍᑦ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐊᔾᔨᒋᔭᖓᑎᒍᑦ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᖃᕈᑎᐅᕙᑦᑐᓂᒃ ᐋᖅᑭᒃᓱᐃᓯᒪᓕᕐᓂᐊᖅᑐᑕ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖁᑎᒋᔭᑦᑎᓐᓂᒃ.
ᐱᓕᕆᐊᑦᑎᓐᓂ ᑐᕌᖓᓂᖃᓗᐊᕐᓂᐊᖅᐳᒍᑦ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᑦ 737-400-ᖁᑎᑦᑎᓐᓂᒃ, ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᓴᖅᑮᓯᒪᓕᕐᒥᓗᑕ ᐊᓯᖏᓂᒃ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᒃᑲᓐᓂᕐᓂᒃ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖁᑎᒋᔭᑦᑎᓐᓄᑦ ᐊᑐᖅᑕᐅᓕᖃᑕᐅᓂᐊᖅᑐᓂᒃ ᒫᔾᔨᐅᓕᖅᐸᑦ, ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᓄᑖᖑᓂᖅᓴᐅᓪᓗᑎᒃ, ᐱᖅᐸᓗᓗᐊᖖᒋᓐᓂᖅᓴᐅᓪᓗᑎᒃ, ᐃᖢᐊᕐᓂᖅᓴᐅᓪᓗᑎᒃᓗ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐅᖅᓱᖅᑐᐊᓚᐃᓐᓂᖅᓴᐅᓪᓗᑎᒃ ᓴᖅᑮᓯᒪᓕᕐᓂᐊᕆᓪᓗᑕ ATR 42-500ᓂᒃ. ᑖᒃᑯᐊ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᑦ ᐅᓪᓗᒥᐅᓕᖅᑐᒥ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖅᑎᓄᑦ ᓴᓇᕐᕈᑎᔅᓴᖃᕐᒪᑕ, ᓱᒃᑲᓕᓂᖅᓴᐅᓪᓗᑎᒃ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐊᖏᓂᖅᓴᐅᔪᒥᒃ ᐊᑭᒋᔭᖏᑎᒍᑦ ᒪᓕᒃᑎᑕᐅᓂᖅᓴᐅᓂᐊᖅᑐᑎᒃ ᒫᓐᓇᐅᔪᒥ ᐊᑐᖅᐸᒃᑕᑦᑎᓐᓂᑦ. ᓯᕗᓪᓕᖅᐸᐅᑎᑕᐅᓗᑎᒃ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᑦ ATR 42-500 ᐊᑐᖅᑕᐅᓕᕐᓂᐊᖅᐳᑦ ᑕᒡᕙᓂ ᑕᖅᑭᕆᔭᑦᑎᓐᓂ ᔭᓗᓇᐃᒥᑦ-ᕼᐊᐃ ᕆᕗᕐᒧᑦ ᐃᖏᕐᕋᑎᑕᐅᕙᓪᓗᑎᒃ. ᑕᐃᒪᓗ ATR 42-500 ᖃᖓᑕᓲᑦ ᐃᓇᖏᕈᑎᐅᓕᕐᓂᐊᖅᑐᑎᒃ ATR 42-300-ᓄᑦ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖁᑎᑦᑕ ᑎᑭᑦᑕᕐᕕᒋᕙᒃᑕᐃᓄᑦ. ᓯᕗᓂᕆᓂᐊᖅᑕᕗᑦ ᐃᓱᒪᒋᓗᒋᑦ, ᐅᑭᐅᖓ 2016 ᕘᔅᑦ ᐃᐊᒃᑯᑦ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᓕᕆᔨᖏᓄᑦ ᐱᒻᒪᕆᐅᑎᓐᓇᑦᑎᒍ. 70-ᓂᒃ ᐅᑭᐅᓂᒃ ᐊᑐᕐᓂᖃᑦᑎᐊᖅᑐᑎᒍᑦ ᐱᔨᑦᑎᕋᖅᑎᐅᓯᒪᓕᕐᓂᑦᑎᓐᓂᒃ ᖁᕕᐊᓱᒍᑎᖃᕐᓂᐊᕋᑦᑕ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐅᖓᑎᒻᒪᕆᐊᓄᑦ ᑐᖖᒐᓱᒃᑎᑦᑎᕙᒃᓯᒪᓂᑦᑎᓐᓂᒃ ᐅᑭᐅᖅᑕᖅᑐᒥᐅᓂ ᓄᓇᓕᒋᔭᐅᔪᓄᑦ. ᓂᕆᐅᖕᓂᖃᑦᑎᐊᕈᑎᒋᕙᖅᐳᑦ ᐱᐅᓪᓚᕆᒃᑐᒃᑯᑦ ᖁᕕᐊᓱᒍᑎᒋᔪᓐᓇᕐᓂᐊᕋᑦᑎᒍ ᓇᓪᓕᐅᓂᖅᓯᐅᕐᓂᕗᑦ, ᖃᓄᐃᓕᐅᖅᑎᑦᑎᓂᖃᕐᓗᑕ ᓄᓇᓕᒋᔭᐅᔪᓂ ᐱᔨᑦᓯᕋᕐᕕᒋᕙᒃᑕᑦᑎᓐᓄᑦ, ᖃᕆᑕᐅᔭᑎᒍᑦ ᐱᓕᕆᓂᖃᖅᑎᑦᑎᓗᑕ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᓵᓚᒃᓴᐅᑎᑖᕋᓱᐊᖅᑎᑦᑎᓗᑕ, ᖁᕝᕙᖅᑎᑦᑎᒋᐊᕐᓯᒪᓂᖃᕐᓗᑕ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᖁᕕᐊᓱᒍᑎᖃᖅᑎᑦᑎᓗᑕ ᐅᑭᐅᓗᒃᑖᒥ. ᖃᐅᔨᒋᐊᖃᑦᑕᖅᓯᐅᒃ ᖃᓄᐃᓕᐅᕈᑎᒋᓕᖅᑕᕗᑦ ᐅᖃᓘᑎᐊᓛᑎᒍᑦ ᑐᐃᑐᕐᑎᒍᑦ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᕖᔅᐳᒃᑯᑎᒍᑦ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᑐᓴᖅᑎᑕᒃᓴᖁᑎᑦᑎᓐᓂᒃ ᖃᐅᔨᒋᐊᖃᑦᑕᕐᓗᓯ ᖃᓄᖅ ᐃᓚᒋᔭᐅᖃᑕᐅᓕᕈᓐᓇᕐᒪᖔᑦᓰ ᖁᕕᐊᓱᒍᑎᖃᖅᑎᑦᑎᓂᑦᑎᓐᓄᑦ 70-ᓂᒃ ᐅᑭᐅᓂᒃ ᓇᓪᓕᐅᓂᓯᐅᖅᑎᓪᓗᑕ.
ᑕᒡᕙᓂ ᐅᑭᐅᑦᑎᓐᓂ, ᑲᔪᓯᑎᑦᑎᓯᒪᓂᐊᕐᒥᔪᒍᑦ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᑦᑎᓐᓂ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᒃᓴᖁᑎᒋᔭᑦᑎᓐᓂᒃ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐸᕐᓇᐅᑎᓕᐅᕐᓂᑦᑎᓐᓂ ᐊᓯᐊᒍᑦ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᖑᓕᕈᓐᓇᕐᕕᐅᔪᓂᒃ ᓇᓗᓇᐃᖅᓯᓯᒪᓕᕆᐊᕐᓗᑕ ᐱᓕᕆᓂᖃᕐᕕᐅᓕᕈᖕᓇᖅᑐᓂᒃ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐃᑲᔪᕐᓂᖃᕈᓐᓇᖅᑐᑎᒃ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᑎᒍᑦ ᐱᔨᑦᑎᕋᕈᑎᐅᕙᒃᑐᓄᑦ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐊᐅᓚᑦᓯᓂᐅᕙᒃᑐᓂ ᐊᑐᕐᓂᖃᕋᔭᖅᑐᓂᒃ. ᐃᓚᒋᔭᐅᖃᑕᐅᓪᓗᑕ ᓴᕆᒪᒋᓪᓗᑎᒍ ᓄᓇᓕᒋᔭᐅᔪᓄᑦ, ᕘᔅᑦ ᐃᐊᒃᑯᑎᒍ ᑲᔪᓯᑎᑦᑎᓂᐊᕐᒥᔪᒍᑦ ᑮᓇᐅᔭᑎᒍᑦ ᐃᑲᔪᖅᓯᓂᖃᖅᐸᓐᓂᑦᑎᓐᓂᒃ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐃᑲᔪᕐᓂᖃᖅᐸᓐᓂᑦᑎᓐᓂᒃ ᐊᔾᔨᒌᖖᒋᐅᖅᑑᓪᓗᑎᒃ ᓄᓇᓕᒋᔭᐅᔪᓂ ᖃᓄᐃᓕᐅᖅᑎᑦᑎᓂᐅᕙᒃᑐᓄᑦ, ᐊᖏᔫᑎᓄᑦ ᒥᑭᔫᑎᓄᓪᓗ, ᑲᓇᑕᐅᑉ ᐅᑭᐅᖅᑕᖅᑐᖓᓂ 2016 ᐅᑭᐅᖓ ᐊᑐᖅᑎᓪᓗᒍ. ᐅᔾᔨᕆᒐᑦᑎᒍ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᒃᓴᖃᖅᑎᑕᐅᓂᕗᑦ ᓇᖕᒥᓂᖅ ᐱᓕᕆᕝᕕᖃᖅᑎᐅᓪᓗᑕ ᓄᓇᓕᖃᖃᑕᐅᓂᑦᑎᓐᓂᒃ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐃᑲᔪᖅᑎᐅᖃᑕᐅᓂᑦᑎᓐᓂᒃ ᓄᓇᓕᒋᔭᐅᔪᓄᑦ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐃᓄᖏᓐᓄᑦ ᐱᔨᑦᑎᕋᕐᕕᒋᕙᑦᑕᑦᑎᓐᓄᑦ. ᖁᔭᓐᓇᒥᒃ ᐃᑲᔪᖅᓯᓂᕆᔭᑦᓯᓐᓂᒃ ᐅᕙᑦᑎᓐᓄᑦ ᑲᔪᓯᑎᑦᑎᓯᒪᒐᑦᓯ. ᐊᐅᓚᑦᓯᓂᑦᑎᓐᓂᒃ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐱᔨᑦᑎᕋᕐᕕᒋᕙᑦᑕᑦᑎᓐᓄᑦ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᒃᓴᕆᔭᑦᑎᓐᓂᒃ ᓴᖖᒋᒃᑎᑦᑎᒋᐊᖅᓯᒪᐃᓐᓇᕐᓂᐊᖅᑐᒍ ᐅᑭᐅᖅᑕᖅᑐᒥᐅᓄᑦ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᖅᑎᒋᔭᐅᑎᓪᓗᑕ.
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, Je vous souhaite une bonne et heureuse année! J’espère que vous avez célébré le début de l’année 2016 dans un esprit de bonne humeur avec votre famille et vos amis. Alors que nous entrons dans la nouvelle année, nous célébrons aussi nos réalisations et nos succès de l’année dernière. L’année 2015 a été marquée par des changements importants et par une planification stratégique comportant de nouvelles initiatives commerciales dont la mise en œuvre connaît un succès retentissant. En 2016, nous mettrons à profit ces succès pour que ce soit l’année pendant laquelle nous achèverons les changements et appliquerons notre programme d’investissement de 100 M$ de dollars en vue de moderniser et de normaliser notre flotte. Nous nous concentrerons sur les Boeing 737-400, en ajoutant un autre appareil de ce type à notre flotte en mars, ainsi que de plus récents ATR 42-500 qui sont plus silencieux, confortables et économiques en carburant. Ces aéronefs disposent d’un poste de pilotage moderne, ils sont plus rapides et offrent plus de charge utile que la génération actuelle que nous exploitons. Les premiers vols d’ATR 42-500 seront entrepris ce mois-ci sur l’itinéraire Yellowknife-Hay River. Graduellement, les ATR 42-500 remplaceront les ATR 42-300 sur tous les itinéraires. Par ailleurs, 2016 est une année spéciale pour nous tous chez First Air. Nous célébrons 70 ans de service fiable et d’accueil sans égal pour les collectivités du Nord. Nous sommes très heureux de célébrer cette occasion avec beaucoup de style par des activités dans les collectivités que nous desservons, des activités et des concours en ligne, des promotions et des célébrations tout au long de l’année. Restez à l’écoute en nous suivant sur Twitter ou Facebook et tenez-vous au courant des annonces sur la façon de vous joindre à nous pour célébrer notre 70e anniversaire. Au cours de cette année, nous continuerons aussi d’évaluer des facteurs commerciaux clés et des options stratégiques par l’identification de possibilités, la prestation de services de transport aérien durables, ainsi que par l’amélioration du service à la clientèle et de l’efficacité opérationnelle. En tant que fier membre de la communauté, First Air continuera en 2016 de parrainer et d’appuyer différents événements communautaires, grands et petits, dans tout le Nord canadien. Nous reconnaissons notre responsabilité à titre d’entreprise clé respectueuse de ses obligations sociales et partenaire des collectivités et des personnes que nous desservons. Merci de votre soutien continu. Nous cherchons toujours à améliorer nos opérations et les niveaux de service à la clientèle en vue de continuer à être la Ligne aérienne du Nord.
Brock Friesen Président-directeur général de First Air
srs6b6g3u4 czb˙oEp7mEst4vFs4. 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.
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L to R: Katie Heaphy, Assistant Sales Manager; René Armas Maes, Director Sales & Marketing; Donald Penner, and Kim Poulter, Manager Corporate Sales.
Winning at the Geoscience Conference First Air was a proud sponsor of the 2015 Geoscience Conference held in Yellowknife from November 24 to 26. Congratulations to Donald Penner, CEO of Sikta Gold Corp., winner of a trip for two on First Air!
© TOM SANDLER/BUSINESS FOR THE ARTS
© KIM POULTER
In the News
Making an impact in the Arts Brock Friesen, First Air President & CEO, was honoured to attend the Business for the Arts Canadian Arts and Business Awards gala in Toronto in October to receive the Community Impact Award acknowledging First Air’s long-standing partnership with the National Arts Centre (NAC). Brock is pictured here with Jayne Watson of the NAC and Vince Timpano, President and CEO of AIMIA (Community Impact Award sponsor).
© JACKIE DANKWA
© AVERY MCQUIRTER (2)
Last year, First Air provided discounted airfares for 21 visiting musicians, 14 Inuit musicians, and five additional Nunavummiut artists to travel to seven northern communities. First Air also offered discounted cargo rates for shipping educational materials and equipment, significantly enhancing the music education programs in the North.
L to R: Eva van Jagow and Lianna McQuirter, First Air Executive Assistant.
Helping to feed the children Brainchild of Eva van Jagow, a student from Stittsville, Ontario, All That Glam is a fundraiser featuring gently used and new jewellery and handbags. All proceeds go to the Sakku School in Coral Harbour, Nunavut, through the Breakfast Club of Canada. The late November event marked its third year and to date the fundraiser has raised over $40,000. First Air is happy to support Eva and her team in this worthy cause.
L to R: Julie Hale, Assistant Manager Customer Care; Gerry Desousa, Assistant Cargo Manager in Ottawa; Margaret Atwood; Rene Armas Maes, Director Sales & Marketing; Elena Ramirez, Senior Manager Sales & Product Development.
Supporting literacy In November, the Royal Canadian Geographical Society held their College of Fellows Annual Dinner at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Québec. Margaret Atwood, one of the keynote speakers, visited with First Air staff in attendance.
From the Flight Deck What’s involved in a pre-flight check and why do we do them?
© JASON MILLER / BAFFIN PHOTOGRAPHY
Aviation is full of a long list of checks and confirmations. A pre-flight check is no exception. The purpose of the check is to ensure that all aspects of the aircraft are in correct working order. The goal is to ensure that the aircraft is ready to complete the flight safely. Any issues we come across during the various checks are investigated and resolved before departure. What’s involved in the checks is a little bit more complicated. It depends on who conducts the checks, since there are actually several pre-flight checks that are carried out on any given day. Our maintenance staff completes an inspection of each aircraft on a daily basis before the first departure of the day. These checks are known as a daily inspection, or a DI. The DI largely focuses on the mechanical systems of the aircraft and includes a general inspection of the fuselage for any damage, verification of tire pressures, confirmation of the oil and other fluid levels and verification that the various lights all operate correctly. This inspection is normally completed before the aircraft is parked at the gate. Once the crew arrives at the aircraft, they carry out their own pre-flight checks. Before the first flight of the day, pilots and flight attendants conduct a thorough inspection of the aircraft. While the maintenance staff focus on the mechanical aspects of the aircraft, the crew focuses their inspections primarily on the normal systems and the various emergency equipment. The pilots will power up all of the normal systems and carry out a series of tests to ensure they are all working normally. They also test the various backup systems and the warning system that alerts the crew should a system malfunction while in flight. While one pilot is completing those checks in the flight deck, the other
pilot will conduct a visual inspection of the exterior of the aircraft. This is largely a visual check to supplement the DI that was carried out by the maintenance staff and is designed to confirm that the aircraft is ready to depart. They are primarily looking for things that might have changed while the aircraft was being loaded or parked outside. The pilot confirms that all access panels have been closed, all safety covers have been removed, the aircraft has been fuelled, the tires are in good condition and there are no signs of external damage. In winter, they are also alert for any snow or ice accumulation on the wings that will require removal before takeoff. Meanwhile, the flight attendants inspect all of the safety equipment in the cabin — fire extinguishers, first aid kits, oxygen bottles, smoke detectors, safety feature cards, etc. After the crew completes the checks, the aircraft is ready for boarding. Once everyone is on board (along with the last cargo and bags), one last round of pre-flight checks are carried out. After the last door is closed,
the ground staff completes one last exterior check of the aircraft. This check serves as a final confirmation that nothing was missed in the previous inspections. Even though the pilots have clear indications in the flight deck that all doors are secure, the ground staff also confirms this visually. In inclement weather, they also complete another inspection of the wings to determine if any ice or snow has built up following the pilot’s pre-flight check. Once everything is complete, we know that the maintenance staff, the pilots, the flight attendants and the ground staff have all confirmed that all systems operate normally, we’re ready to depart. Ultimately, there is no such thing as ‘a’ pre-flight check; it’s really a series of checks by our entire team. All of the various members of the team have key roles to play — all focussed on ensuring your safety. Only once everyone has agreed do we depart. Captain Aaron Speer Director Flight Operations and Captain ATR First Air
Dedicated to being first in service — and our commitment to the communities and people we serve!
ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔭᖅᑎᐅᑉ ᐅᔾᔨᕆᔭᐅᑎᑕᐅᓂᖓ
Employee Spotlight | Iqqanaijaqtiup Ujjirijautitauninga
ᐹᑦᑐᕆᒃ ᐊᒃᐸᓕᐊᓗᒃ
| Patrick Akpalialuk
ᐹᑦᑐᕆᒃ ᐊᒃᐸᓕᐊᓗᒃ ᐃᖃᓗᐃᑦ, ᓄᓇᕗᒻᒥᐅᑕᖅ, ᓯᕗᓪᓕᖅᐸᐅᓪᓗᓂ ᖃᖓᑕᓲᒃᑯᕕᖕᒥ ᐊᐅᓚᑦᓯᔨᒋᔭᐅᓕᕐᐳᖅ (ᑮᓇᐅᔾᔭᒃᓴᐅᑎᓂ) ᑰᔾᔪᐊᕐᒥᐅᓄᑦ (YVP) ᓄᓇᕕᖕᒥ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐋᑐᕙᒥᐅᓄᑦ (YOW) ᐋᓐᑎᐊᕆᐅᒥ. ᐹᑦᑐᕆᒃ ᐃᑲᔪᖅᑎᒋᔭᐅᕙᒻᒥᔪᖅ ᐅᐸᒍᑎᓯᒪᔪᓕᕆᔨᒃᑯᓐᓄᑦ ᓂᐅᕕᐊᒃᓴᖃᖅᑎᑦᑎᕙᓐᓂᓕᕆᔨᓄᑦ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᖃᖅᑎᐅᔪᓕᒫᓂ. ᑕᐃᒪ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔭᖅᑎᐅᓕᓚᐅᕋᒥ ᕘᔅᑦ ᐃᐊᒃᑯᓐᓄᑦ 2010-ᒥ, ᐹᑦᑐᕆᒃ ᐊᑕᐃᓐᓇᐅᔭᖅᑐᒥᒃ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔮᕆᔭᒥᒍᑦ ᖁᕝᕙᖅᐸᓪᓕᐊᓯᒪᓕᕐᐳᖅ ᑐᑭᒧᐊᒃᑎᒋᔭᐅᓪᓗᓂ, ᑮᓇᐅᔾᔭᒃᓴᓇᓱᐊᕐᓂᕐᒧᑦ ᐊᐅᓚᑦᓯᔨᐅᓂᕐᒥᓂᑦ ᕿᑭᖅᑖᓘᑉ ᒥᒃᓵᓂᕐᒥᐅᓄᑦ, ᖃᖓᑕᓲᒃᑯᕕᖕᒥ ᐊᐅᓚᑦᓯᔨᒋᔭᐅᓕᖅᑐᓂ ᑲᓇᑕᐅᑉ ᕿᑎᖅᐸᓯᐊᑕ ᐊᕕᒃᑐᖅᓯᒪᓂᕆᔭᖓᓂᑦ ᒫᓐᓇᒧᑦ ᑎᑭᑦᑐᒍ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔮᕆᓕᖅᑕᒥᓄᑦ ᑰᔾᔪᐊᖅᒥ.
ᓵᓚᒃᓴᕈᑎᖃᓚᐅᖅᓯᒪᓪᓗᓂ ᓄᓇᕗᒻᒥ ᒪᒃᑯᒃᑑᓪᓗᓂ ᓇᖕᒥᓂᖅ ᐱᓕᕆᕝᕕᖃᖅᑎᐅᓂᕐᒧᑦ 2000ᖑᑎᓪᓗᒍ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐃᓚᒋᔭᐅᖃᑕᐅᓚᐅᖅᑐᓂ ᐱᕙᓪᓕᐊᔪᓕᕆᔨᒃᑯᑦ - ᐱᓕᕆᐊᖑᑲᐃᓐᓇᖅᑐᓂᒃ ᕿᒥᕐᕈᔨᑦ ᑲᑎᒪᔨᕋᓛᖏᓐᓄᑦ ᑲᑭᕙᒃᑯᓐᓂ (NCEDO) 12-ᓄᑦ ᐅᑭᐅᓄᑦ, ᐹᑐᕆᒃ ᓴᖖᒋᓂᖃᖅᑎᐊᖅᑐᒥᒃ ᓇᖕᒥᓂᖅ ᐱᓕᕆᕝᕕᖃᕐᓂᕐᒧᑦ ᖃᐅᔨᒪᓂᖃᖅᑐᓂ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔮᕆᓕᖅᑕᒥᓂ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐅᔾᔨᕈᓱᑦᑎᐊᖅᑑᓪᓗᓂ ᐅᑭᐅᖅᑕᖅᑐᒥ ᓇᖕᒥᓂᖅ ᐱᓕᕆᕝᕕᖃᕐᓂᓕᕆᓂᕐᒥ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᓂᐅᕕᖅᐸᒃᑐᓂᑦ ᐱᔭᐅᓯᒪᓕᕆᐊᖃᖅᑐᓄᑦ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔭᖅᑎᒋᔭᐅᓕᕐᐳᖅ. ᕘᔅᑦ ᐃᐊᒃᑯᓐᓄᑦ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔭᖅᑎᒋᔭᐅᓯᒪᓕᖅᑐᓂ ᐅᑭᐅᓄᑦ ᑕᓪᓕᒪᓄᑦ, ᐱᓕᒻᒪᒃᓴᔭᐅᓯᒪᓂᖏᑦ ᐃᓚᖃᖅᐳᑦ ᓵᑉᕆ (ᓯᕗᓪᓕᕐᒥᒃ/ᖁᕝᕙᓯᖕᓂᖅᓴᓄᑦ ᑲᒪᔨᐅᓂᕐᒧᑦ), ᓯᑲᐃᓚᐅᓐ ᓱᐳᕐ ᐊᑐᖅᐸᒃᑐᓕᕆᓂᕐᒧᑦ (ᐅᓯᔭᐅᕙᒃᑐᓄᑦ), ᕘᔅᑦ ᐃᐊᒃᑯᑦ ᐊᐅᓚᑦᓯᔨᐅᓂᕐᒧᑦ ᐱᓕᒻᒪᒃᓴᐃᓂᖏᓐᓄᑦ, ᒪᓕᒐᓕᕆᔨᐅᓂᕐᒧᑦ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐱᓕᕆᐊᖑᑲᐃᓐᓇᖅᑐᓄᑦ ᐊᐅᓚᑦᓯᔨᐅᓂᕐᒧᑦ.
ᐹᑐᕆᒃ ᖁᕕᐊᒋᔭᖃᕐᐳᖅ ᓄᓇᓕᐅᔪᓄᑦ ᐅᐊᔭᖃᑎᖃᖅᐸᓐᓂᕐᒥᓂᒃ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐱᓕᕆᔨᐅᖃᑎᖃᖅᐸᓐᓂᕐᒥᓂᒃ ᕘᔅᑦ ᐃᐊᒃᑯᓐᓄᑦ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔭᖅᑎᒋᔭᐅᔪᓂᒃ ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐃᑭᒪᕙᒃᑐᓂᒃ. ᑭᓯᐊᓂᓗ, ᐅᖃᐅᑎᔭᐅᓯᒪᒋᕗᖅ, ᖃᓄᑐᐃᓐᓇᖅ ᓯᓚᐅᑉ ᖃᓄᐃᑉᐸᖕᓂᖓᓄᑦ ᑕᐃᒪᓐᓇᐃᓚᕿᑎᑦᑎᕙᓐᓂᖓᓄᑦ ᐱᔾᔪᑎᖃᖅᑐᓄᑦ ᐃᖅᑲᓇᐃᔭᖃᑎᒋᔭᒥᓂᑦ! ᕘᔅᑦ ᐃᐊᒃᑯᓐᓄᑦ ᓂᐅᕕᕈᒪᔪᓄᑦ ᐃᑲᔪᖅᑎᐅᖃᑕᐅᖖᒋᓕᕌᖓᒥ ᐅᕝᕙᓘᓐᓃᑦ ᓯᓚᐅᑉ ᖃᓄᐃᓐᓂᕆᓂᐊᖅᑕᖓᓄᑦ ᖃᐅᔨᒪᔾᔪᑎᒋᔭᐅᖖᒋᓕᕌᖓᒥ, ᐹᑐᕆ ᐸᐃᓯᑰᕆᐊᒥᒃ, ᐅᖃᓕᒫᕆᐊᒥᒃ, ᐊᒻᒪᓗ ᐅᐊᔭᕆᐊᒥᓂᒃ ᓄᓇᓕᖕᓄᑦ ᖁᕕᐊᒋᔭᖃᖅᐸᒃᑐᖅ.
Patrick Akpalialuk from Iqaluit, Nunavut, is First Air’s Station Manager (Commercial) for Kuujjuaq (YVP) in Nunavik and Ottawa (YOW) in Ontario. Patrick also assists with Customer Service, Marketing & Sales across the network. Beginning his career at First Air in 2010, Patrick has steadily moved up the ranks from Supervisor, Commercial Operations for the Eastern Region, to Station Manager for the Central Region to his current position in Kuujjuaq. Having been a winner of the Nunavut Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2000 and a member of the Economic Development — Project Review Committee with Kakivak (NCEDO) for 12 years, Patrick brings a very strong business background to his job and is highly aware of the North’s business and customer needs. Now with First Air for five years, his training includes Sabre (Initial/Advanced Counter), Skyline Super User (Cargo), First Air Management Training, Contract Law and Project Management. Patrick enjoys travelling and working with both First Air employees and customers alike. He has been told, however, that he is the cause of any weather related issues experienced in his network! When not serving First Air customers or being the weather barometer, Patrick enjoys mountain biking, reading, and travelling. Patrick is looking forward to meeting you in Kuujjuaq.
ᐹᑐᕆᒃ ᐃᓕᓐᓂᒃ ᑕᑯᓯᒪᓕᕆᐊᒃᓴᒥᓂ ᑰᔾᔪᐊᕐᒥ ᓂᕆᐅᖕᓂᖃᑦᑎᐊᕐᐳᖅ.
Dedicated to being first in service — and our commitment to the communities and people we serve!
www.firstair.ca
2016 | 01 • $5.95
Chasing the Aurora Borealis How to Capture the Arsaniit
Sailing Classroom Journey of Mutual Respect
Arviat’s Ancestors Out on the Land to Se lement Life
Active Inuit Wisdom
Contents 8
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January | February 2016 Volume 28, No. 1
Iglu Building Project
PM40050872
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LooKIng SouTH AnD STAyIng WArm on A CoLD ArCTIC nIgHT WITH THE LIgHTS of KugLuKTuK, nunAvuT, In THE DISTAnCE. Š DAvID Ho
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Features
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Active Inuit Wisdom
Kugluktuk High School students learn about
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the magical properties of snow while building traditional iglus. — Haydn George
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Chasing the Aurora Borealis
Photographers reveal their secrets to capturing arsaniit. — Isabelle Dubois
Sailing Classroom
The 15th Annual Arctic Expedition provided
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participants with opportunities to share and learn about their different cultures.
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Connecting with Arviat’s Ancestors
Despite the move from out on the land to
settlement life, the area surrounding present-
day Arviat has been continuously occupied by the people and their descendants, who still live there today. — David F. Pelly
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
11 Living Above&Beyond 18 Resources
36 Sport Team nunavik’s Cultural Contingent at AWg — Kativik regional government 38 Health Puttautiit Conference — meredith griffiths 43 Culture Circus Arts
46 Arts “Beyond Aurora Borealis� — rocco Pannese
48 Science genome Sequencing — Jenny ge and David Smith 51 Bookshelf
53 Guest Editorial — Alicia Aragutak President, nunavik youth forum 54 Inuit Forum our Political footprints Are Everywhere — natan obed President, ITK
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Active Inuit Wisdom Kugluktuk High School’s Iglu Building Project By Haydn george
As the darkness closes in and the temperatures begin to plunge, sources of inspiration and ingenuity are clear; necessity dictated a shelter for survival. The Inuit learned the magical properties of snow packed by bitterly cold winter winds: it could be cut into stable blocks and offered critical insulation. So for thousands of years, the iglu has been an essential home in the Arctic. In fact,
people as they li their first block is memorable. How can
the importance of this skill has been passed down through the generations and we are
snow be this heavy? e wind packed dris are a clue to its’
reminded of it when Nunavut’s Education Minister Paul Aarulaaq Quassa explains in
density.
We Need to Know Who We Are, “that’s what they used to say, that you had to know how to build an igloo first before you get married.”
As the first row of blocks is laid and the slope is cut, we intuitively know that this is both a mathematical puzzle and
Remarkably, it was not too long ago that Inuit were still born in an iglu, as was Paul
magic in the making. Each vertical edge is connected to the
Quassa and Kugluktuk’s Wildlife Officer Allen Niptanatiak. So it is no surprise that
centre by an imaginary radial line; each horizontal plane
students at Kugluktuk High School (KHS) have been inspired to rediscover the snow
also leads to the same point at the centre of the semi-sphere.
house.
e spiral works its way skyward, dizzying the block
Our goal was to rediscover the art of iglu building and recreate the ultimate Inuit
layer. ere is a sense that something much greater than the
metaphor of collaboration. In the winter of 2014, Elder Charlie Bolt led us to the eastern
sum of any individual block being tapped together is being
end of our runway. Under his playful guidance we erected our first snow house. For
created. e process humbles us and we are in awe at the
recent graduate Kevin Ongahak, this was his first time. Imagine if building an iglu was
result as the dome closes, seeming to defy gravity. e
also a requirement for graduation; we would be better prepared for winter camping
winter home has been recreated.
and marriage!
As Eva Otokiak from Cambridge Bay notes in the book,
A year later, in the winter of 2015, we began again, but this time we headed north
Birth on the Land “living in an iglu was the most memorable
onto the sea ice. Guide Jorgen Bolt (son of Charlie) found a suitable location below the
because that was a shelter for us to live in, to sleep in, to eat
cliffs of 5 Mile Island where the harsh Arctic winds pack the snow into solid dris.
in, to celebrate with family and friends”.
Jorgen chooses the snow carefully; consistent firmness through its thickness is critical.
is sense of home probably explains why there is oen
e blade of the pana must slide with a constant resistance down into the dri; this
a genuine innate interest in this humbling ancient process.
way we know the blocks will be strong without any weak layers.
e igloo meant survival in the most unforgiving Arctic
e magic begins. Blocks are cut from the dri: first the length, then both sides and
environment and the youth seem to sense they are involved
then the bottom. While on our knees we lean with our forearms applying weight and
in something ancestral, something deeply meaningful:
rocking the block forward; most blocks feel surprisingly heavy. Watching the faces of
active Inuit wisdom.
An inquisitive visitor inspects the snow creations.
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2016 | 01
Below: Haydn George looks up at the magical spiral that seems to defy gravity. © David Ho (6)
Right: Evan Hitkolok packs the surprisingly heavy snow blocks after they have been cut from the pit. L to R: Evan Hitkolok, Avery Gallagher and Elisha Kadlun.
Above: Evan Hitkolok learns the process with the rest of us.
Above: The weekend igloo team rests before closing the dome. L to R: Bryson Egotak, David Egert, Avery Gallagher, Haydn George, Elisha Kudlun, and Evan Hitkolok. Left: Elders share stories and enjoy tea at the snow houses on an Arctic spring day. L to R: Anessa Pederson, Jayden Pederson (child), Millie Hatogina, and Laura Kohotak.
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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2016 | 01
LIvIng ABovE & BEyonD Artists engage in round table discussion on topics such as cultural tourism, climate change and challenges. © Christopher Porter, Courtesy of Points north Creative
Canadian artists showcase at Circum-Arctic Art Show
A group of indigenous artists from across the Arctic travelled to reykjavik,
Lynn feasey of Points north Creative was responsible for the Canadian
Iceland, in october to participate in the first annual Circum-Arctic Art
contingent. “This show has tremendous potential for growth. With our
performing artists from across the circumpolar regions shared their
across our northern territories and regions, and that is so valuable in
Show. Held during the Arctic Circle Assembly, nearly 30 visual and
cultures and art. The aim was to find cultural commonalities and exchange viewpoints on the changing environment and the challenges they face.
Artists from russia, Sweden, greenland and Canada spent five days
together demonstrating their work and forging new relationships. Canadian
northern arts festivals, both artists and visitors experience works from
terms of connection and collaboration. While we are reaching out to other areas of Canada, crossing borders into the rest of the circumpolar
Arctic is integral to the larger conversation of the importance of arts and culture across these regions.”
Having a presence at the Arctic Circle Assembly allowed a wider
artists included Billy gauthier and mary Ann Penashue from newfoundland,
audience to sample the performances and artworks offered at the
and Shirlee frost from the yukon, and Lucy nigiyok and John Sabourin
at the response. “I will work hard to support this event and bring it
mathew nuqingaq and Johnny Issaluk from nunavut, mark Preston from the nWT.
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
show. Alex Kuznetsov, the show’s founder and organizer was thrilled all over the world.”
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LIvIng ABovE & BEyonD Tagak Curley, Father Robert Lechat, and William Lyall receive their awards. © Legislative Assembly of nunavut
northern leaders receive order of nunavut
This past fall, three northern veteran leaders
and Hall Beach. He was instrumental in encour-
Implementation Commission, and became
Lechat, Bill Lyall and Tagak Curley were presented
Kangiqsujuaq to write about her life, which
Bay in 1978, a position he still holds.
received order of nunavut medals. father robert
with their awards in a ceremony at the Legislative
aging the late mitiarjuk Attasie nappaaluk of resulted in the first novel written in Inuktitut
president of the Ikaluktutiak Co-op in Cambridge Tagak Curley, 71, was a founding member
syllabics,
of the organization now known as Inuit Tapiriit
Canada’s oldest surviving Christian missionary’s.
grew up in Taloyoak, and lived most of his adult
Legislative Assembly of the northwest Territories,
Arctic in the late 1940s and early 1950s, he
as a member in the Legislative Assembly of the
Assembly of nunavut.
father robert Lechat, 95, is one of northern
An oblate priest who travelled to the eastern performed missionary work for many years in
communities such as Kangiqsujuaq, Igloolik
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Bill Lyall, 74, was born on Somerset Island,
life in Cambridge Bay, nunavut. He has served
northwest Territories, as president of Arctic
Co-operatives Ltd., vice-chair of the nunavut
Kanatami, served as mLA for Aivilik in the was mLA for rankin Inlet north in the nunavut
Legislature, served a time as nunavut health
minister, and led the nunavut Construction Corp., in 2004.
2016 | 01
LIvIng ABovE & BEyonD Kakisa Dene First Nations chief, Lloyd Chicot and his wife Anita, return from a boat ride on Tathlina Lake, Northwest Territories, in “Ka’a’gee Tu: Between the Willows”. © Pat Kane
Documenting the nWT
over the next year, a series of new documentaries, “on the Land,” will
Territories, Pat Kane, a yellowknife photographer, writer, and journalist
interviews, photos, and videos the project will explore the cultural and
good Hope, Trout Lake, and Kakisa to gather stories and photos for the
showcase the people of the northwest Territories (nWT). Through stories, biological significance of this area and why the stewardship of wildlife, land, water, and other natural resources in this region is so important.
In partnership with Tides Canada and the government of the northwest
will travel to the nWT communities of Behchoko, Jean marie river, fort project.
This is an ongoing series with the first story online now. Ka’a’gee Tu:
Between the Willows: www.ontheland.net/kaageetu
nunavut Elders receive awards
The Inuit Heritage Trust (IHT) has announced the recipients of their 2015 Elder Awards Program.
The Elders’ recognition Award is given out every two years to nunavut Elders to
recognize their contributions in helping other nunavummiut understand Inuit culture, heritage and archaeology. The IHT seeks recommendations from communities, heritage
organizations as well as IHT board and staff to identify candidates from across nunavut Levi Illuitok. © Jeannie Illuitok
Pitseolak Niviaqsi. © ninglukulu Teevee
(Kitikmeot, Kivalliq and Qikiqtani regions) for the awards. Each elder receives $1,500. This year’s winners are:
Pitseolak niviaqsi – Cape Dorset, BAffIn: for his commitment to share Inuit values,
survival and hunting techniques, and traditional stories on local radio.
Levi Illuitok – Kugaaruk, KITIKmEoT: for taking students on camping and land
programs and sharing his knowledge and traditions for many years.
Peter nakoolak – Coral Harbour, KIvALLIQ: for instructing youth and adults how to
make traditional tools such as ulus and panas and for sharing his story of his family’s Peter Nakoolak and Pearl Nakoolak. © Taukie nakoolak
relocation and what it takes to cope through mental health skills and encouraging youth to be strong and willing to speak up about their culture, land and the animals they consume.
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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KIKIAK
CONTRACTIN G LTD.
General contractors serving the North since 1999 Inuit owned and operated General construction, remediation work, plumbing and heating, heavy equipment rental and service, earthworks, vehicle service and rental, expediting, ice road construction, cat train work
#56 Kugluktuk Dr., Kugluktuk, NU Ph: 867-982-4713 F : 867-982-4718 Email: kikiak_gn@netkaster.ca
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2016 | 01
LIvIng ABovE & BEyonD
L to R: RCGS medal recipient Dr. Louis Fortier, Nellie T. Kusugak (Commissioner of Nunavut), Elizabeth Dowdeswell (Lieutenant Governor of Ontario), and Paul Ruest (RCGS President) at the Royal Canadian Geographical Society’s Annual Awards and Dinner at the Canadian Museum of History in November. © matt Zambonin/Canadian geographic
Scientific director wins award
Louis fortier, scientific director of the Arcticnet
research network, is the 2015 winner of the northern Science Award.
“He has inspired and fostered the creation
of knowledge that directly benefits northern
societies and communities,” cited Polar Knowledge Canada in the announcement.
fortier, a marine biologist at université
Laval in Quebec City, Quebec, has been involved
with Arcticnet since it began around 2003. Arcticnet is a consortium that brings together
researchers from 30 Canadian universities. Their work involves research using the CCgS
Amundsen vessel as a platform for marine science
work in the Arctic as well as partnerships with
Inuit organizations and private industry for
various projects focusing on Inuit education, health, and culture.
The northern Science Award comes with a
cash prize of $10,000.
Polar Knowledge Canada has merged with
the Canadian High Arctic research Station
in Cambridge Bay, nunavut, and is the new name for the agency that used to be called the Canadian Polar Commission.
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
government of nunavut partners with WAg
As part of a five-year deal, the governments of nunavut and manitoba will spend $1 million to move thousands of pieces of Inuit art — much of which have been in storage for years — to the Winnipeg Art gallery.
The Winnipeg Art gallery already has the largest Inuit art collection in
the world with 14,000 pieces. under the nunavut-manitoba memorandum of
understanding, it will receive more than 7,000 pieces on loan for a five-year period. The collection spans a 70-year period and includes Inuit carvings, tapestries, prints, handmade toys, clothing and tools.
The Winnipeg Art gallery’s planned new four-level, 40,000-square-foot Inuit
Art Centre will be directly beside the existing gallery building. In addition to Inuit and indigenous galleries, it will include space for artist and curator residencies and five studios offering year-round programming. Irene Avaalaaqiaq Tiktaalaaq. Untitled, (Spirits), c. 1980. © government of nunavut fine Arts Collection
It is hoped that construction will begin at the end of 2016 or beginning of
2017 with an expected completion date of two years.
WAg is planning an exhibition of tapestries for the spring of 2016 with interest
Lifetime achievement recognized
from france and germany to host shows as well.
Ian Stirling, polar bear scientist, was presented
with the annual Weston family Prize for Lifetime Achievement in northern research during Arctic-
and is a research scientist emeritus with Environment Canada.
The Conference welcomed researchers, students,
net’s 11th Annual Scientific meeting in December
northerners, policy makers and stakeholders
Ian Stirling worked for 37 years studying polar
economical and political challenges and opportu-
in vancouver, British Columbia. The prize is $50K.
bears, seals and sea ice in Canada’s Arctic with the Canadian Wildlife Service, publishes research as an adjunct professor at the university of Alberta,
to address the numerous environmental, social, nities that are emerging from climate change and modernization in the Arctic.
© Dr. Stirling
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2016 | 01
LIvIng ABovE & BEyonD
nCTr archive available to public
The national Centre for Truth and reconcilia-
School experience to help foster reconcili-
Canada’s residential School system and legacy
The Centre is located in Chancellor’s
tion’s mandate is to “preserve the memory of
forever.” In november, the nCTr opened its physical and online archives to the public.
Its online archive contains “Terabytes of
ation and healing.
Hall at the university of manitoba in Winnipeg. nctr.ca
In the mid-1930s, the Anglican Church closed its residential schools in Shingle Point and Hay River, NWT, transferring the students to the new All Saints School in Aklavik, NWT. As more students moved to the community to attend the day school, the residence became increasingly overcrowded. In 1959, All Saints was closed and its students were transferred to Inuvik. © national Centre for Truth and reconciliation Archives
Testimony,” which includes 35,000 photos,
five million government, church, and school documents, 7,000 survivor statements, as well as art, poems, music, and physical items
collected by the Truth and reconciliation Commission of Canada (TrC).
As the permanent, secure, home for this
important collection, the nCTr will ensure that former students and their families have access to their own history; educators can share the
history with future generations; and researchers
and the public can explore the residential
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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rESourCES The Foxfire Diamond from the Diavik Diamond Mine. Š rio Tinto
nunAvIK
Nickel mine under review
The glencore raglan mine may still have an
extended future. The nunavik nickel mine, expected to close in 2020, is reviewing its phase two, the Sivumut project.
The Kativik Environmental Quality Commission
will evaluate the Sivumut project’s Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) in
2016. If approved, the project would include two new underground mines, which would operate from 2019 to 2032.
nunAvuT
Potential gold and base metals being explored
Transition metals aims to spend at least
$18 million on exploration in the area and has
from Hudson Bay to the mackenzie mountains.
for the project.
for noranda Explorations Ltd., 100 kilometres
support from the Kitikmeot Inuit Association
nWT
Two billion-year-old diamond found
rio Tinto has unveiled one of the largest diamonds ever discovered in Canada.
The 187.7-carat gem-quality rough diamond,
called, The Diavik foxfire, was discovered at the Diavik Diamond mine in the remote northwest Territories, 220 km south of the Arctic Circle. The Diavik foxfire has also been bestowed an
indigenous name, noi?eh Kwe, which references the strong ties to the Tlicho land.
resource Corp. and a Sudbury, ontario-based
Skookum Jim Award recipient announced
up potential sites for gold and base metal
is the winner of the 2016 Skookum Jim Award
An alliance between the Inuit-owned nunavut company, Transition metals Corp., has turned
exploration following aerial surveys on Inuitowned land last summer.
The surveys revealed high potential gold
Darrell Beaulieu, CEo of Denedeh Investments, recognizing achievement by aboriginal-owned mining businesses.
The Prospectors and Developers Association
and base metal target areas within the north
of Canada (PDAC), since 2008, presents the award
Corridor, about 175 kilometres southwest of
made a significant contribution to the mining
portion of parcel IoL Co-20, known as the Izok Cambridge Bay.
18
Beaulieu has worked in the mining industry
annually to an individual or a company that has industry.
His first mining job was at the age of 17 working from yellowknife. He spent about seven months in the bush, surveying, staking claims and
setting up camps all over the territory. He was involved with the Impact Benefit Agreement for Ekati diamonds. In 2005, Beaulieu became
the CEo of Denedeh Investments. In 2013, he oversaw the creation of DEmCo, a wholly
Dene-owned mining exploration company, which currently owns silver, gold and diamond properties.
yuKon
Gold claims await approval
Darrell Carey of Slinky mine in Dawson City, yukon, has applied for a 10-year permit to mine 31 new claims on the eastern side of Dome road.
If the placer operation passes the environ-
mental assessment process, it would receive approval to mine gold in the area.
The application is awaiting a decision by
the yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board (yESAB).
2016 | 01
Chasing the
Aurora Borealis
Photographers reveal their secrets to capturing arsaniit By Isabelle Dubois
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2016 | 01
Aurora madness. © David Kilabuk
Northern lights still hold a fascination for a lot of us ordinary mortals. Since the dawn of time, these flamboyant beams painting the Arctic sky a bright green and sometimes crimson are the source of many popular beliefs and legends. Known as arsaniit to Inuit, their magnetic appeal attracts people from all around the globe to travel North just to witness and photograph this spectacle of heavenly beauty.
A
s a photographer, I decided it was about time I did my homework to be ready, come winter, to get my own take on this free open-air performance waiting outside
my door in the dark of the night. So I reached out to a few of my fellow shutterbugs, whose works are featured here, who kindly shared their secrets with me. Like paparazzi always in search of their target celebrity, we might have to do a bit of research to hunt down our northern act before they can become the focus of our lens’ attention. Sure, we can always go out the door and just look up to the sky in hopes of finding the aurora borealis lurking in the night. With a bit of luck, that might do the trick. Unfortunately, it doesn’t always work that way. For self-taught northern lights hunter Gilles Boutin, who has published two lavishly illustrated books and regularly gives conferences on the subject throughout Quebec, photographing the aurora borealis is serious business. For this now retired cop from Lévis, who has made the trip to Nunavik several times to indulge his passion for the
Stairway to heaven. © Gilles Boutin
striking lights, planning is everything. us, to make the most of his journeys North, he oen prepares months in advance, making sure he books his travel during the most favourable months, sometimes in the fall, but preferably in the depths of winter, when night takes over the Arctic sky for hours, or in March when northern lights activity is
Opposite: Iqalumiut Kelly Belair (left), Aaju Peter (centre) and Richard Coates (right) take part in an open-air performance by the northern lights. © Michelle Valberg
at its peak, not to mention the milder weather. 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
21
ough Boutin is knowledgeable enough to go out on his own, some who, like him, live far from the aurora borealis realm, may prefer to leave the planning to an experienced northern tour operator. A lot of providers even offer the services of a professional photographer to teach you how to photograph northern lights as part of their travel package, which will help ensure you return home with great memories for your photo album. at being said, a little planning won’t hurt to ensure a successful photographic mission, even for those of us who have the chance to live in Canada’s North, whether in the Yukon, the Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Nunavik, Nunatsiavut-Labrador or James Bay. Since the aurora borealis are caused by charged particles carried by solar winds, conducted from the sun by Earth’s magnetic fields to the dark side of the planet and filling the night sky with colourful glows as they collide in our upper atmosphere Dancing with the stars. © Lee Narraway
at high speed, scientists have found ways to predict them. Various websites exist, providing forecasts and alerts that will ensure you are on the look out when the odds of seeing northern lights are at their best. Gilles Boutin’s personal favourite is NASA’s
Home to Inuk photographer David Kilabuk, the village of Pangnirtung, Nunavut, sets the stage for another aurora borealis production. © David Kilabuk
22
www.spaceweather.com, but as seen in above&beyond (2015, Issue 6), the Canadian Space Agency’s AuroraMAX (www.asc-csa.gc.ca/eng/astronomy/auroramax) also provides valuable information.
2016 | 01
Standing still.
This photo was taken with a 10 mm wide-angle lens on a Nikon D7000, with an ISO of 800, a speed of 8 seconds and at an f5.0 aperture. The 8:8:8 method has been applied, with the aperture opened a little more, at f5.0 instead of f8, to let more light in. © Pierre Dunnigan
Aside from space weather and aurora alerts, Gilles Boutin recommends to check your local weather forecast too, as clouds could render your outing completely hopeless, hiding even the most active auroras behind their thick cover. To make the most of your experience, the experts also advise to get out of town, away from the light pollution of street lamps, which make it more difficult to see the colourful streaks swaying overhead. Beware of the full moon as well, which can steal the spotlight just the same. Over the years, I’ve learned that though northern lights can come out to play as soon as darkness falls, more oen than not, they like to play hide and seek for a while before they finally decide to show themselves, sometimes way past my bedtime. So if you want to make sure to catch them, be prepared to stay up late, otherwise they might just go out dancing without you.
Tips from the pros Photographing the aurora borealis is not a simple point and shoot affair. Since these elusive celestial parades don’t always last forever, if you don’t want to miss your chance to seize the moment, you need to prep yourself and your equipment. Here are a few tips from some of above&beyond’s favourite photographers that will help make your night memorable. First, you need to have the right camera, “one that you can adjust manually yourself, even the focus,” says Michelle Valberg. “When it comes to shooting northern lights, you can’t just use it on automatic mode, as even the best cameras won’t know what to do,” she explains. And since auroras tend to spread their drapes across the sky, “you’ll want to use a wide angle lens,” adds colleague Lee Narraway, to make sure you can fit the whole scene in your frame. For the long exposures required to capture the northern lights swaying in the dark, every experienced photographer will also tell you that using a tripod is a must. is essential stand will support your camera and, paired with a remote shutter release cable, will ensure your camera is still at all times. “If you don’t have that kind of equipment, you’ll
his truck while his camera does the work, Kilabuk makes
have to find a way to settle your camera on something solid and use the self-timer to trigger
sure he’s dressed to face the biting cold. “I usually dress up
the camera to make sure it doesn’t move,” suggests Pierre Dunnigan as an alternative.
the same as if I was going out by skidoo, especially if I’m
Dunnigan also recommends having a couple spare batteries, as they will quickly be
going on the sea ice,” he declares. Both he and Dunnigan
drained by the prolonged exposures, not to mention the cold. “And make sure they’re
also mention the importance of wearing small gloves, to en-
all charged before you go out,” insists Narraway.
able them to handle the camera without freezing their fin-
“Having a little flashlight (or headlamp) so that you can look at your dial to adjust
gers at temperatures oen way below zero. Of course, their
the settings on your camera will prove very useful in the dark,” adds Valberg, even if she
big mitts are never far behind to warm up their hands while
prefers to preset them before heading out whenever possible. Either way, it’s best to have
waiting for their next shot. I always kept my spare batteries
one handy since, as Narraway points out, “photographing auroras is an experimental
in there too, to keep them from draining in the cold, but I
thing with a lot of hit-and-miss that always requires adjustments along the way”. For
might try Pierre Dunnigan’s trick this winter and keep them
Inuk photographer David Kilabuk based in the High Arctic, in Pangnirtung, Nunavut,
in my camera bag with HotShots air-activated pads, which
having a flashlight is also a question of personal safety, as polar bears roam the area.
I carry with me as emergency hand and feet warmers.
“Obviously, I can’t leave it on while I’m taking a picture,” he explains, “but in between
e lights are out, you’ve got your camera ready, it’s now
shots, I constantly scan around me for eyes in the distance, always trying to listen for
time for action! First, you’ll want to set your focus. If you’re
any wildlife nearby.”
lucky to have something in your line-of-sight, such as town
Aside from all the photography gear, all agree that keeping warm is also a must if
lights, a mountaintop, trees, a tent or igloo, you can focus
you want to last long enough in the cold and dark winter night. Unless he can stay in
on them, using your flashlight, if necessary. Using such
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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Known to Inuit as Allaniq, Mount Duval is no stranger to the appeal of northern lights. © David Kilabuk
scenery can give your photos some perspective, making
15 seconds to process before you can see the image on your screen,” clarifies Dunnigan.
them more interesting, maintain Kilabuk and Valberg. Valberg
“is not only uses up more battery, but can also waste precious time,” adds Kilabuk,
even likes to use people in her shots, sometimes using a
who prefers to turn off this noise reduction treatment and do his own later at home,
small flash or light source that she pops for a mere second
adjusting it to his own taste on his computer, as many photo soware programs now
during exposure time, keeping a certain distance to light up
offer that option. at way, he can also set his camera on self-timer to take nine shots
their face just right. But if there’s nothing but northern lights
in a row, making the most of his time.
in the horizon, all agree it’s best to set the focus manually
And since time is of the essence when shooting northern lights, even if they some-
on infinity. Either way, “once you have your focus set, be
times seem too dim for the effort, both Valberg and Narraway insist it’s worthwhile
sure not to move the camera,” reiterates Dunnigan.
shooting anyway. As Valberg explains, “since the camera picks up more than the human
Next, Dunnigan likes to apply the 8:8:8 method as a
eye can, even the faintest aurora can get you surprisingly nice results”.
base, starting with an ISO of 800 and a f8 aperture at a speed
“You might even get more stars than you can see out there,” adds Narraway. “But
of 8 seconds. From then on, he says, “you can play with the
don’t leave your shutter open too long, otherwise stars will start to streak,” she advises.
settings, increasing the aperture one stop at a time to f5.6,
You can of course adjust your ISO higher to get even more light in. “But be careful:
then f4,” or better yet, as Narraway suggests, “opening as
the higher the ISO, the more there will be noise on your picture,” warns Narraway,
wide as f2.8 to let the light come in faster”.
“although some cameras can handle it well nowadays,” she mentions.
“If the auroras are very active and bright, you might need
You can always follow the Inuit’s advice and try to whistle to awaken the arsaniit
less time with the shutter open,” continues Valberg. “But on
and lure them closer. But beware: should you decide to summon them this way, you
the contrary, if they’re a bit dim, you’ll want to leave your
should also be prepared to rub your fingernails together or run your zipper up and
shutter open longer, up to 15, 20 or 30 seconds,” she adds.
down to create a clicking sound to make them go away again. If they come too near,
Dunnigan points out that a longer exposure also increases
they could try to take you away, according to Inuit superstition.
processing time, as it will take your camera as much time
However you find the aurora, just being out there to watch these mesmerizing lights
to render the photo once the shutter closes. “For example, if
ignite the night will be worth every moment, as they will definitely take your breath
you leave the shutter open for 15 seconds, it will take another
away.
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2016 | 01
Polar adventurer Eric McNair-Landry teaches youth how to build a traditional Inuit qajaq onboard the Students on Ice 2015 Arctic Expedition. © Lee Narraway/Students on Ice
An Uummanaq student performs a traditional dance for the SOI 2015 Arctic Expedition team. © Martin Lipman /Students on Ice
An Inuit Drummer performs at Sirmilik National Park. © Lee Narraway
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2016 | 01
Sailing Classroom A journey of mutual respect This past summer, Students on Ice (SOI) embarked on its 15th annual Arctic Expedition aboard their floating classroom, the Ocean Endeavour, sailing through ice-covered waters on a life-altering journey from Greenland to Canada’s High Arctic. The expedition brought together 115 students from 18 countries, including 40 Indigenous youth. They not only observed polar bears, but also considered the changes to their habitat from global warming. They saw the history of changes in landscape, naturally and human-induced; compared the different cultural and political experiences of people in Greenland and Arctic Canada; bridged the understanding and perspectives of Northern and Southern Canadians; and so much more. Globally acclaimed as a leader in polar education and youth engagement, SOI has developed an alumnus of more than 2,500 students, continuing scholars and young professionals who have a breadth of knowledge; a sense of values and awareness of human and natural differences; an appreciation of the natural, planetary, and political world and their place in it; and an energy to do something worthwhile that they freely admit owes much to the inspiration and experience of SOI. The impacts of the SOI program and its alumni are being noted in cultural, commercial, educational, legal, political, as well as academic and scientific domains. The members of SOI Arctic 2015. © Martin Lipman/Students on Ice
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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T
he following four perspectives were shared by SOI participants — Justin Fisch of Montreal, Udlu Hanson of Iqaluit, Robert Comeau of Iqaluit, and Cree/Metis artist Jaime Koebel of Ottawa — reflecting on their experiences and the impact of their SOI journey. Justin Fisch. © Lee Narraway
“As Canadians, reconciliation is our national expedition.”
Justin Fisch, Montreal, Quebec, Arctic 2014 Student
“SOI journeys celebrate and honour our ‘differences’.”
Udlu Hanson. © Martin Lipman
Udlu Hanson, Iqaluit, Nunavut, Arctic 2015 Educator
Every Students on Ice expedition charts a different
True reconciliation is achieved through reciprocal respect. To honour and celebrate
path and tells a different story, but one aspect does not
our culture and language: is is how we will heal as an Aboriginal People. To honour
change: the opportunity afforded to share, learn about
and celebrate our diverse cultural heritage: is is how we will heal as a united and grateful
and discuss our country’s uneasy history with the Indige-
country.
nous peoples of Canada’s North. ere are many ways the story of our North has been conveyed to us, as southern Canadians, with little to none
Overcoming a malignant era of misgivings and disastrous events requires an even keel and platforms of trust. SOI expeditions provide Inuit expeditioners with a platform to share unequivocally and unapologetically.
being historically accurate. Few of us have ever had the
Showcasing the land, water and sky using a sailing classroom is the perfect
opportunity to study alongside our Inuit neighbours,
opportunity to regain, instil and nurture reciprocal pride in a culture and country. As
with even fewer able to openly and candidly discuss the
expeditioners, we become equal learners and observers.
difficult issues between our cultures with an eye to the future. SOI provides just that space. e Truth and Reconciliation Commission specifically
SOI expeditioners leave the ship wanting to learn more, do more, and be more. Reconciliation of a nation starts and ends with our own personal journey to reconcile differences. SOI journeys celebrate and honour our ‘differences’.
asks us, as a country, to “[build] student capacity for intercultural understanding, empathy, and mutual respect”. For this call to be followed, an expeditionary mindset is crucial. e expeditionary lessons I embraced aboard Students on Ice facilitate my recognition of reconciliation as an open and crucial, yet difficult process, but one that we must undertake to move forward. As Canadians, reconciliation is our national expedition.
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Students explore Tay Bay, Nunavut, by paddleboard during the Students on Ice 2015 Arctic Expedition. © Martin Lipman /Students on Ice
2016 | 01
Students on Ice would like to thank its many generous partners and supporters who make SOI expeditions possible. To support the Students on Ice Foundation, learn more and apply for SOI’s 2016 Arctic Expedition, please visit www.studentsonice.com. SOI is a registered charity in Canada and the United States.
Metis artist Jaime Koebel. © Martin Lipman
“I felt that each and every person was valued and an important part of the group.”
Jaime Koebel, Ottawa, Ontario, Arctic 2015 Resident Artist
During the 2015 Expedition to western Greenland and Canada’s Arctic with Student’s on Ice, my role was to participate as an Aboriginal Artist in Residence. e opportunity was made available because of a generous grant and joint endeavour between the Canadian Commission for UNESCO and the Canada Council for the Arts. My intention was to bring what I know as a Nehiyaw/Apeetagosan (Cree/Métis) artist and share traditions and knowledge of plant properties and animal products in relation
Robert Comeau. © Robert Comeau
“I had to overcome my own personal insecurities with my Inuk identity.” Robert Comeau, Iqaluit, Nunavut, Arctic 2015 Student
to our connection to the land and translate that experience into creative projects. We produced birch bark biting, fish scale art, personal paintings and drawings.
is summer with Students on Ice we went on hikes
I was constantly amazed by all of the expertise on the expedition and how we were
in Sisimiut, Greenland, where we were shown the sod
all equals in our own way. I felt that each and every person was valued and an important
houses that Inuit inhabited before colonization. We took
part of the group. Part way through the trip, it occurred to me that given the amount of
core samples from a pond. One of the Inuit participants
scientific expertise combined with traditional and personal knowledge, this was an ex-
decided to construct an inuksuk. As I stood and watched,
ceptional opportunity for acts of reconciliation between Indigenous people and others.
I was asked questions about the inuksuk and about Inuit
SOI brings people together who may not have ever had the chance to meet. Between
culture. What I experienced in that moment was a feeling
Indigenous knowledge keepers, scientists, artists of all disciplines, politicians, educators
of pride.
and leaders, there are valuable opportunities to learn from one another. e way in
As we continued our journey, questions arose about
which we learned on and off the ship about the places we visited were very much
Inuit and our way of life. Having lived in an urban setting
enriched from many points of view while always having that base of listening to the
for many years, this opportunity to share who I am with
Indigenous peoples of the land.
people from around the world was amazing. is is because
For me, the entire trip was an act of reconciliation and I hope that many more people have the chance to be a part of it.
I had to overcome my own personal insecurities with my Inuk identity. ese insecurities stem from instances of lateral violence and intergenerational trauma of the Canadian colonial project. We pulled into Uummanaq, Greenland, taking in the icebergs and each other’s company. Next thing you know there was a group of people watching and then participating in traditional Inuit survival games. Inuit from all over Canada taught me how to play these games a bit better. Kids from the south joined in on the activities and learned why our ancestors played these games and why we play them today. ese individual personal moments and connections demonstrated the ability of SOI to enact and facilitate genuine reconciliation in the context of its expeditions.
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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2016 | 01
Connecting with
Arviat’s Ancestors From out on the land to settlement life By David F. Pelly
I
n the late 1600s and early 1700s, the ancestors of today’s Inuit inhabitants began moving southward from the High Arctic, both along the west coast of Hudson Bay and possibly overland from the Arctic coast into the central
barrenlands. e motives behind this were the usual for a nomadic hunting people: the incessant search for food resources and better living conditions. Eventually, some of these people reached the region of present-day Arviat. ey were not the first people to occupy this region — archaeological evidence suggests man first arrived here in hunting parties as much as 7,000 years ago, and the area was then occupied by Paleo-Eskimo and Early altheilei people approximately 3,000 years ago. But since about 1700, the area surrounding present-day Arviat has been continuously occupied by the people and their descendants who still live there today. Ukkitaaq (Bite) as first seen by Oberholtzer in 1912. © Ernest C. Oberholtzer Foundation
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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Inuit camp on the Hudson Bay coast, 1912. © Ernest C. Oberholtzer Foundation
Hudson Bay, as far south at least as the present community of Arviat. For much of the 18th century, the HBC took advantage of open water in the summer to send a ship north along the coast to trade with the Inuit, one of its principal destinations being a prominent point of land where the ship could safely approach the coast, and was afforded some shelter at anchor in the adjacent bay. is peninsula the traders named Eskimo Point. eir trading voyages continued until 1790. Aer that, Inuit wishing to continue the trading way of life needed to travel down to Churchill, so from that year onward their occupation of that entire coast was extensive. An HBC census from 1838 documents that the Churchill post was visited by 663 Inuit Arviat, 2010. © M. Robbins Courtesy of the Arviat Community Ecotourism Project
that year, more than either Chipewyan or Cree. e traders encouraged Inuit to continue bringing furs or caribou meat and began to request whales as well. In return, the Inuit began to acquire rifles and fishnets, two major assets in their quest for survival. As the century turned, Inuit ranged farther afield and shied inland on a more permanent
In 1717, the Hudson’s Bay Company established a trading
basis, drawn chiefly by the security of the vast herds of caribou. By the mid-19th century,
post at what is now Churchill. It was a critical step in the
significant numbers of Inuit families had established their hunting grounds far enough
Company’s efforts to extend the trade to the west and the
inland to effectively cut off their own easy access to the sea.
northwest, to draw both the Chipewyan Dene and the Inuit
e last half of the 19th century saw the development of a system whereby certain
of the Hudson Bay coast into the trade. At this time, these
Inuit entrepreneurs began to serve as middlemen for the trade. Acting as go-between,
“southern” Inuit were living mainly along the coast of
these individuals collected from the region’s hunters and delivered furs to the HBC
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Qaunnaq, whose son Iblauq is alive today in Arviat. 1930s. © Donald Marsh/ NWT Archives/N-1979-050-0640
post at Churchill. One famous such individual was Ulibbaq (known then as William Ullebuk Jr.), a Paalirmiut man who lived in the Eskimo Point region during this time, who was born ca. 1831. His father, born in the mid- to late 1700s, also Ulibbaq (also called Ouligbuk or Maqqu), was famous for “travelling around the world three times,” a reference to his trips with explorers Samuel Hearne, John Franklin, George Back, omas Simpson, and John Rae. In the 1870s Ulibbaq Jr. acquired a schooner, which allowed him to deliver large quantities of fur down to Churchill, and a corresponding volume of trade goods back up to his base-camp near Eskimo Point. It is said that he spoke 10 languages, including Inuktitut, Cree, Dene, English and French. Ulibbaq Sr. also had another son, named Donald, who in turn named his son Donald Ulibbaq, born in the last half of the 19th century, and deceased in the Arviat region in 1952. is latter Donald Ulibbaq is the grandfather of Donald Uluadluak (his real name is also Ulibbaq) who survived until recently in Arviat and recalled how he
Kaqslui (right) and Ulaajuk (left) ca.1940. © Donald Marsh/ Library and Archives Canada/E004665465 ca. 1940
was taught Inuit ways by his grandfather. is is but one of the myriad connections people in Arviat still have today to the earliest days of Inuit occupation along this
small group of Dene hunters accompanying the Oblate mis-
stretch of the Hudson Bay coast.
sionary, Fr. Alphonse Gasté, who in 1868 was the first white
Nor was this phenomenon of the middleman trader restricted to the coast. At about
man to visit the shores of the upper Kazan. When J.B. Tyrrell
the same time, some inland Inuit began making a long journey south into the trees, to
descended the Kazan in 1894, on August 21 near Angikuni
the HBC post at Du Brochet on Reindeer Lake. ey were first shown the way by a
he wrote: “one man, Annleak [properly Angaliaq], came in
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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Eskimo Point (now Arviat) when it was little more than the Anglican mission beside a cluster of HBC buildings. © LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES CANADA/PA-135949
this aernoon from a short distance up the river. He says
provide the earliest visual record of the community’s ancestors. Ahmak and Ukkitaaq
that he goes every winter to Du Brochet Post [on Reindeer
both have descendants living in Arviat today; in fact their names are still in use, in
Lake] to trade and that all the Eskimos bring their furs
accordance with the Inuit custom of passing names down through the generations. e
to him. He is going as soon as the snow comes and I am
great great grandson of Ullebuk (aka Ouligbuk or Makkoaq), Donald Uluadluak,
sending a letter to my wife by him.” ere are several records
as an elder, remembered Ukkitaaq well, and recalled his death during an epidemic that
of Inuit visits to Du Brochet during the latter years of the
swept through the area in 1941. Connections to the early days of occupation in the
19th century.
region are woven through the community’s consciousness still today in Arviat.
In 1912, when American adventurer Ernest Oberholtzer
By the middle of the 19th century, different groups of Inuit were living in distinct pockets
arrived at the mouth of the Aglirnaqtuq [lewiaza River]
surrounding Eskimo Point, though still maintaining a high degree of mobility. ey
on the coast of Husdon Bay, 70 kilometres south of Eskimo
had come to identify themselves in these discrete groupings based largely on kinship. e
Point, he was in desperate straights. He had paddled from
Paalirmiut, probably the largest of the territorial groups, lived relatively close to the coast
central Manitoba, through Reindeer Lake, following the old
using the lakes and rivers that flow directly into Hudson Bay, facilitating the develop-
Dene route from Du Brochet to the barrenlands, and on to
ment of a seasonal cycle which saw them move out to the coast in time for the spring
this far northern limit of the white man’s charted knowledge in
seal-hunt, and return inland in time for the fall migration of caribou. e Ahiarmiut
just under 80 days. It was mid-September; winter weather was
lived inland, beyond the Paalirmiut, and the sub-group of Ahiarmiurjuit were well
nigh. Oberholtzer’s prospects looked dim. But by immense
inland around the upper Kazan River, principally Ennadai Lake and downstream
good fortune, at this inauspicious river mouth, he met an
(north) to Angikuni Lake, and south toward Nueltin Lake at the headwaters of
Inuit man in a qajaq, whom he called Bite, but whose real
Aglirnaqtuq [lewiaza River]. e Kivahikturmiut occupied areas to the south of present-
name was Uturuuq, better know as Ukkitaaq, meaning
day Arviat, all the way into northern Manitoba, and used two main river systems,
“sharp-shooter.”
Aglirnaqtuq and Kuu’juaq (elewiaza and a-anne Rivers) to reach their traditional
is man, together with his older brother Ahmak, de-
winter areas as far inland as Edehon Lake. e Tarriurmiut were devoted coastal
livered Oberholtzer safely to Churchill, whence he eventu-
dwellers north of present-day Arviat, as were the Hauniqtuurmiut even farther to the
ally returned home to Minnesota. Of significance to Arviat
north. And, finally, the Aivilingmiut, from farther north, who had migrated south from
is the fact that Oberholtzer took photographs, which now
Repulse Bay while working with American whalers in the late 1800s.
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Tahiuq, near Padlei, NWT, March 1950. Photo by Richard Harrington. © PA-114675. NATIONAL LIBRARY AND ARCHIVES
All of these groups are represented in the population of present-day Arviat, which began its development as a more permanent settlement in 1921, when the Hudson’s Bay Company established its first post north of Churchill. In 1924 the Roman Catholic Church arrived, and two years later the Anglican Church followed. All three of these institutions initially built at Nuvuk, the very tip of the peninsula long known by the traders as Eskimo Point. When the Reverend Donald Marsh, newly frocked Anglican missionary, arrived off the shore of Eskimo Point in an HBC schooner, in August 1926, he wrote: “When the anchor dropped, against a background of conical skin tents, I saw old men with long, flowing hair, smiling, wrinkled and seamed faces, clad in caribou skins so stained that many of them looked the colour of the earth. ey stooped slightly forward as they walked, as if to help themselves along, yet with the dignity and ease of men sure of themselves.” In the following months, Marsh built the first Anglican mission at Eskimo Point, and in subsequent years he travelled widely by dog-team to visit the Inuit camps scattered across the interior stretching toward Nueltin Lake, Ennadai Lake, and the Kazan River. By his own account, his parish covered an area greater than 120,000 square kilometres. In 1928-29, the HBC and the two missions all moved a few kilometres to the west, to the contemporary town-site, to take advantage of easier access to fresh water and a better landing for small boats. In 1936, the RCMP established a detachment there to serve the surrounding area, which by then sustained a population of something close to 1,000 Inuit. About the time that Donald Marsh le the coast of Hudson Bay, in 1944, the dreadful epidemics of newly introduced diseases and the ravages of starvation both began to sweep across the surrounding tundra. By the time Marsh became the second Bishop of the Arctic, in 1950, the shi into settlement life was either underway or clearly on the horizon for most of the people struggling to survive in the scattered camps. Real-life
who appear in the Harrington photos did not survive and
scenes such as Marsh had recorded in his photographs, of healthy fulfilled lives
many of their descendants also live in Arviat now. In some
unfolding entirely out on the land, would never be witnessed again.
of the camps he visited, Harrington witnessed terrible scenes
e 1950s brought a wave of change over the region. Hints of what happened are
of starvation. e early 1950s were difficult years when the
recorded in another photographic collection. In March of 1950 a photographer from
caribou did not come as usual, and even the fish were hard
southern Canada, Richard Harrington, was travelling by dog-team with his guide
to catch. Many people perished. Others, like Tahiuq’s family,
Kunuk (whom he called Kumok) in the region inland from Eskimo Point. On March
struggled to reach the post at Eskimo Point, where help was
10, he wrote in his journal:
assured. is was the beginning of an irreversible shi in lifestyle, as people began to congregate around the settlement.
Hour aer hour we travel… ere, in the far distance, in this apparently uninhabited
In 1959, a two-room federal day school was built at
country, a man walks. e dogs break into a wild gallop. Even Kumok can’t conceal
Eskimo Point, followed shortly thereaer by a nursing station.
his happiness. It turns out to be a man from Negak’s camp. In 2-3 hours, we’re
By 1963, the population of Eskimo Point was 329, and then
there. In fact, Kumok would have struck it by going on.
through the 1960s more and more families moved permanently into the growing settlement where services were more acces-
Nigiq’s (whom Harrington called Negak) camp was 60 kilometres northwest of
sible. In 1988, the residents voted to change the community’s
Padlei, a satellite post for the HBC trader in Eskimo Point. ere was an old woman in
name to the more traditional designation, Arviat, derived from
the camp who caught Harrington’s eye. He took some remarkable photographs of
arviq meaning “Bowhead Whale” and that name became
Tahiuq. She looks proud though strained in his images. She was among those who
official the next year. Today the population of Arviat is
survived those difficult years, and some of her descendants live today in Arviat. Others
approaching 3,000, one of the largest towns in 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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sporT
Team Nunavik
The Dene Games participants from Team Nunavik-Québec won a bronze Ulu at the AWG 2014 in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Nunavik culture on display at the Arctic Winter Games A high-level, biennial, international sport com-
of Team Nunavik–Québec will be proud partic-
Games bring together delegations from Nunavik,
performances planned.
petition and cultural event, the Arctic Winter
Nunavut, the Northwest Territories, Yukon,
The core of Team Nunavik–Québec’s
northern Alberta, Alaska, Greenland, Yamal
cultural contingent will consist of six musicians
are a truly unique celebration of the north and
to 16, Qulliq was formed in the fall of 2014
(russia) and sami (scandinavia). The Games northern youth.
The next Arctic Winter Games will be
hosted in Nuuk, Greenland, in March 2016, and are shaping up to be a cultural happening.
Building on the rich cultural heritage of Nuuk,
the host society for the 2016 Arctic Winter Games is focusing special attention on the diversity of the circumpolar cultures represented at the Games and constructive collaboration
between international artists. A few members
36
ipants at the many cultural happenings and
from the Qulliq band. ranging in age from 14
through a performing arts program at the Iguarsivik school in puvirnituq, on the east
coast of Hudson Bay. Qulliq performs only Inuktitut music created and performed by other Nunavik artists. performances also show-
case different regional styles of throat singing.
The band is scheduled to participate at two
cultural galas as well as at various smaller
venues throughout the weeklong Arctic Winter Games.
Minnie Etidloie from Kangiqsujuaq poses with her winning amautik.
2016 | 01
sporT The Qulliq band from Puvirnituq will represent Nunavik in various cultural activities and galas at the AWG 2016 in Nuuk, Greenland.
TNQ and NWT athletes perpetuate the pin trading tradition at Arctic Winter Games 2014. © Kativik regional Government (4)
Also part of Team Nunavik–Québec’s cultural
represent a female owl and two chicks. The
delegation, it is smaller in size and competes
amautik design by Minnie Etidloie from
Québec. pin trading between the different par-
the other participating northern regions. Team
contribution to the next Games, the winning Kangiqsujuaq will be presented at the main
cultural exhibit in Nuuk. An ulipakaak by Kuujjuaq-
resident Jennifer Watkins will also be on display. The theme of the exhibit is Northern Cultural
snowy owl is the emblem of Team Nunavik– ticipating regions has always been an important aspect of the Arctic Winter Games and fosters interaction between youth participants.
The Nuuk host society will also be sponsoring
Carrier.
the participation of a volunteer cultural artist
will include an atigik (parka) produced by Nunavik
seamstress who grew up in the community of
For its part, Team Nunavik–Québec’s uniform
Creations. Traditionally designed clothing is considered to be very important in the region
and has become a modern art as it incorporates
new materials. It is the living testimony to the roots of Nunavik Inuit culture. one of the most
from Nunavik. Winifred Nungak, a talented
in fewer sports than delegations from many of
Nunavik–Québec will be competing in six disciplines: Arctic sports, Badminton, Cross-
Country skiing, Dene Games, snow shoeing
and Table Tennis. The Team will consist of more than 60 athletes and a small number of cultural performers.
The Nuuk host society for the 2016 Arctic
Kangirsuk on the west coast of Ungava Bay, has
Winter Games is committed to organizing
studied fashion design at Lasalle College in
that reach out to and involve the Games’
been selected to play this role. Nungak, who
Montreal, graduated in 2013. she has delivered parka-making courses for young people in
cultural activities, shows and social activities participants and Nuuk residents of all ages.
Team Nunavik–Québec is funded by the
different parts of Nunavik.
Kativik regional Government and various
very pointy traditional hood.
and creative skills in Nuuk,” says Nungak.
communities of Northern Québec with an
with the Kativik school Board to solicit written
will be able to do with youth athletes and
recognizable characteristics of the Nunavik
parka in Nuuk in March will be the makkak, a Team Nunavik–Québec has also partnered
pieces from senior secondary students on Nunavik Inuit culture that will be presented in Nuuk.
The contest asks entrants to describe what their
“I’m looking forward to sharing my sewing
“We’re putting together some workshops we performers of the Games, other visiting circumpolar artists and residents.”
Arctic Winter Games’ participants include
culture means to them in the 21st century.
more than 1,300 athletes as well as 350
Team Nunavik–Québec’s trading pin. The pin set
Team Nunavik–Québec has been a regular
Jennifer Lapage of Kuujjuaq has created
consists of five pieces that, once assembled,
cultural performers, coaches and mission staff.
participant at the Games since 2000. As a guest
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
sponsors. It provides youth in the Inuit opportunity to improve their athletic abilities
and cultural skills, while fostering their growth
as individuals. Team Nunavik–Québec’s twoyear development and selection process is a powerful and inclusive tool for youth development and mobilization.
Kativik regional Government 37
H E A LT H The qarmaq built just outside the community provided the perfect setting for evening discussions in an open and safe environment.
puttautiit Conference
supporting each other towards a healing path Hope, positivity and gratitude. A dialogue opened. The mobilization of a community and
a region focused on working together to better love and support one another.
These are the feelings that hung in the air as
the first-ever puttautiit Conference, a regional
suicide prevention and healing conference born in Nunavik, came to a close after an emotional
and uplifting week of workshops, sharing circles
and cultural activities meant to bring participants and community members together in a
judgement-free environment to share, grow Country food was an important part of the lunches provided by the Ilagiitsuta team in Puvirnituq each day.
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and learn from each other.
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H E A LT H
Several gather at the qarmaq to hear Jackussie Ittukallak and Adamie Sivuarapik talk about land survival skills in the Arctic. For example, the men explained that if you were to be stuck out on the land (in a blizzard, for example), you could dig a hole for shelter and sit in it in a way that would have the least amount of your body touching the ground. It would be a position in which only your knees and the tips of your toes would touch the ground (kind of in a crouched position). If you were to fall asleep, you would fall and this would wake you up, saving your life and preventing you from freezing to death. It is meant to keep you alive and as warm as possible. © Meredith Griffiths (3)
The desire to have a conference of this kind in
Nunavik is not something new. Nunavimmiut have wanted to see such an event in the region
for a very long time and, as emphasized by Valerie Lock, Chairperson of the regional suicide prevention Committee as she spoke at
the conference’s opening ceremony, it was
Nunavimmiut who made it happen. “people mobilizing is prevention,” said Valerie. Inspired
by Dialogue for Life, the creation of this annual conference was recommended through the Ilusiliriniqmi pigutjiutini Qimirruniq (IpQ, www.ipqnunavik.com). The goal is to hold this event in a different community each year.
At the puttautiit Conference, held this past
october in the community of puvirnituq, men
and women of all ages from across Nunavik gathered to participate in workshops focused
on developing skills to become more willing, ready and able to intervene with someone at risk of suicide, gain a greater understanding of
the ways in which traumatic experiences in history have affected Inuit, and have access to tools and a space for healing. A well-being net-
work exhibition held on the last day of the event and open to the community gave those
who attended an opportunity to learn more
Just knowing our past enables us to become
take care of our children so they can stand up
improve the well-being of Nunavimmiut.
identity.” she encourages people to reflect on
are empowered as an Inuk, you become more
about initiatives in the region that aim to help
Annie Nulukie, facilitator of the workshop
on cultural identity and personal development, feels there is a great need for empowerment
and affirmation amongst Inuit. “My work is to
get people to consider healing by sharing my own history and experiences with them,” says
Annie. “realizing the effects our history has on
us helps us to move forward on a healing path.
more empowered and affirmed in our own their culture and talk to one another. “To un-
derstand what a person went through helps you let go of resentment,” explains Annie. “It helps you understand why life is the way it is
and why it is important to move forward and
for themselves. They are our future. When you involved and as a result, can have an important impact on how things are in Nunavik.” she also points out that simply the idea of taking care of the children helps heal the child inside us.
participants had many positive things to
consider improving your life.”
say about the conference. They felt that it
children, reminding people that “we need to
better listeners, and made them want to share
Annie emphasizes that it is all about the
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
gave them new tools, helped them to become
39
H E A LT H
Lucy Novalinga and Martha Iqiquq teach participants and community members how to make nikkuk during a meat cutting class in the evening. © Meredith Griffiths (3)
taught her to pay more attention to people who are going through a difficult time, to better support them and be proud of them.
rachel Gordon, a young woman from Kuujjuaq
who has lost loved ones to suicide and at one
time, experienced suicidal thoughts herself, said
that attending the conference made her realize that she was not alone in dealing with suicide.
“I have always felt a lot of guilt and going to this conference helped me let go of that guilt. That is huge.” she hopes to inspire young girls
by helping them realize that it is ok to admit how they feel, and that they can overcome it.
In addition to the puttautiit Conference,
other suicide prevention initiatives already implemented in Nunavik include the creation
of two suicide prevention Liaison Worker what they learned when they returned home
portant for Nunavik. “As an elder, I have had
Minnie Etidloie, from Kangiqsujuaq, feels
deal, but I have learned even more during this
to their community.
that the conference was very powerful and im-
many experiences and have learned a great conference,” says Minnie. she feels that it has
positions, the establishment of a permanent regional suicide prevention Committee and greater numbers of community members trained
in suicide intervention (AsIsT – Applied suicide Intervention skills Training).
The Twin Flames, whose work with youth includes suicide prevention, perform to an energized and appreciative crowd following the community feast.
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During a workshop at Iguarsivik School, facilitator Annie Nulukie reminds youth that there is a light inside each of them, and no one can touch it.
H e a lt H
Initiatives to be implemented in the future
include the creation of a regional system for monitoring suicides and attempted suicides, strengthening and development of local support groups, an increase in well-being promotion
programs and activities, a communication campaign, the development of crisis intervention capacity, a help line and intervention website,
as well as the creation of a regional healing team.
the involvement and support of the
community of Puvirnituq both in the planning
stage and during the conference was outstanding. Meat cutting, massage and relaxation classes
were organized in the evenings, as were land
survival skills and discussions amongst women
at a qarmaq, a traditional dwelling built by
community members for the purpose of the conference as a gathering place where experiences were shared and advice given.
the positive impacts of the Puttautiit
Conference can already be felt; some commu-
nities have even organized their own gatherings following the conference.
elisapi Uitangak, Chairperson of the Nunavik
Regional Board of Health and Social Services (NRBHSS) and resident of Puvirnituq, summed
up the essence of the conference beautifully in her speech at the closing ceremony. “elders,
we love you, you are here,” said elisapi. “adults,
let’s love ourselves, you are here. Youth, we treasure you. You are here. See! We are
here and we can do it together. It takes only one voice to start something, but there are a lot of us.”
Communities and organizations in Nunavik
can request aSISt workshops by contacting the NRBHSS at 1-819-964-2222.
If you or someone you know needs help,
call the Kamatsiaqtut Help line (Inuktitut/ english): 1-800-265-3333
Meredith Griffiths
Nunavik Regional Board of Health and Social Services (NRBHSS)
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C U LT U r E
Circus Arts
Bringing hope and change to struggling and isolated communities
Members of Artcirq. photo by Michele McDonald.
A trip to Nunavut to research Inuit art turned into a seven-year labour of love for a pair of filmmaker-journalists from Boston whose documentary about an Inuit and an African circus is getting worldwide recognition. The film Circus Without Borders (Northern Light productions, 2015) tells the story of the friendship between two world-class acrobats and the partnership they formed between the circuses each had founded — Artcirq based in Igloolik, Nunavut, and Kalabante in Guinea, West Africa. on the surface they could hardly be more differ-
ent, given their geographic locations and ethnicity. But they share the same vision: to bring hope and
change to their struggling and isolated communities, through circus arts. The film casts a light on difficult
issues such as suicide and poverty, which continue to haunt Nunavut, yet it focuses on the resilience and joy of young Inuit performers.
The seed for the film was planted in 2006 when
Boston Globe reporter Linda Matchan went to Cape Dorset and pangnirtung on Baffin Island to write a
travel article about Inuit sculpture
and prints. Tragedy struck during her stay in pangnirtung when a young
mother took her own life, and Matchan
witnessed the devastation to the small community.
saddened by what she’d seen, Matchan, a Canadian,
began to research the phenomenon of suicide in Canada’s North and its link to the country’s history of
residential schools attended by thousands of aboriginal children forcibly removed from their parents. suicide is one of Nunavut’s most urgent public health issues.
The rate has been estimated as 10 times the Canadian average, much higher for young men.
In the course of her research, Matchan learned
about Artcirq, a performing arts troupe from Igloolik started by Guillaume saladin, a Quebec acrobat who
had performed in Montreal’s acclaimed Cirque Eloize.
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
43
C U LT U r E A young member of Artcirq. photo by Michele McDonald.
Guillaume is the son of the prominent
years it took to make the film, the filmmakers
D’Anglure. He had many Inuit friends, and when
Artcirq’s members, whom they filmed in Igloo-
Canadian anthropologist Bernard saladin
two of them took their own lives, Guillaume
responded by helping to create a circus troupe in Igloolik incorporating Inuit traditions such
forged a relationship of trust and respect with
lik, ottawa, Montreal, and at the 2010 Winter olympics in Vancouver, where they performed. The film crew was in Igloolik in 2011 when
as throat-singing, juggling, and telling stories
the Truth and reconciliation Commission arrived
ing hunting and fishing. These Inuit ways
who had been impacted by the residential
which illuminate traditional ways of life, includ-
had become threatened when children were isolated from their parents and grandparents in residential schools.
In 2008, Matchan took the idea to susan
Gray, an award-winning documentary film director, writer and producer at Northern Light productions in Boston.
to take testimony from community members
school legacy. Circus Without Borders contains footage of the hearing, conveying the emotion
and distress of a community still very much
called Kalabante, formed by acrobat and musician
duced to Igloolik in the 1950s — much later
worked with in Cirque Eloize. In 2010, the film-
affected by the school system which was introthan other Aboriginal communities.
The film also has footage shot by D’Anglure
Yamoussa Bangoura, whom Guillaume had
makers accompanied Artcirq to Guinea, and to
their surprise, began to see parallels in their
“suicide does not just affect disadvantaged
showing traditional Inuit life as it was lived 50
At first it was difficult for Matchan and Gray
igloos, heating them with blubber lamps, and
before a Western lifestyle was imposed. The
A central part of the film is Artcirq’s partner-
seasons were cyclical, the houses were round,
communities, it affects all of us,” says Gray.
to win the trust and confidence of Guillaume,
who was wary of outsiders telling a story about Inuit people. But over the course of the seven
years ago — families building and living in hunting for seals on a frozen sea.
ship with an African performing arts troupe
Members of Kalabante in Conakry, Guinea. photo courtesy of Northern Light productions
stories.
Inuit once lived in a more communal way
circle was central to traditional Inuit life: The the life cycle of birth, death and rebirth were
circles. Today Inuit live in square houses in
isolation, and rely on TVs and electronic devices, much like the rest of the developed
world, and a sense of community has been
lost. In Guinea, where suicide is rare, life remains strongly communal, and the film shows this interesting contrast.
Circus Without Borders — which interweaves
the stories of each circus — opened in Boston
in the spring of 2015, and has screened in film
festivals across the United states and Vancouver,
and at arts festivals in Iqaluit and the Montreal First peoples Festival.
In october, it was the opening film of the
prestigious Margaret Mead Film Festival in New York.
The filmmakers feel it’s important to show
the movie to as many people as possible —
particularly youth — to share its message of hope. “It doesn’t matter what community you
are born into or the kind of challenges you inherit,” said Gray. “It matters that you retain
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2016 | 01
C U LT U r E Members of Kalabante. photo by Michele McDonald.
Yamoussa Bangoura (L), founder of Kalabante, and Guillaume Saladin, founder of Artcirq. photo by Michele McDonald.
the ability to dream of a bright future, and that there are people committed to teaching you the skills you need to get there.”
The Washington-based pulitzer Center on
Crisis reporting sponsored an educational tour of the film in Washington, philadelphia, Chicago and st. Louis. The filmmakers, along with Yamoussa and Guillaume, appeared at dozens
of schools to talk about the film and their work.
The documentary was selected as an in-flight
film on Air Canada flights during November and December.
Kinosmith in Toronto and Journeyman
pictures in England are distributors for Circus Without Borders (70 minutes).
Linda Matchan, producer 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
Circus Without Borders
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ArTs
Ancient Evenings Under the Northern Lights Brazilian Soapstone 104.0 x 106.0 x 34.75 cm, #0359, 2015 photographed by silvio Calcagno
Thor’s Story Brazilian Soapstone 100.0 x 77.6 x 51.0 cm, #0063, 2009 photographed by silvio Calcagno
“Beyond Aurora Borealis”
Art based on oral tradition, myths and legends Abraham Anghik ruben is a contemporary artist of Inuvialuit ancestry.
artistic message: an interpretation focused on the oral tradition of
nuances of his contemporary world. As a sculptor, ruben’s work is
and elders from paulatuk.
His work is unique in how it embodies his cultural heritage within the
unparalleled in Canada, in scale and eloquence in communicating his
stories, myths and legends that were shared with him by his parents ruben’s search into the past for an authentic Inuit identity has
led him to the inevitable encounter with the Viking Norse and native inhabitants of Iceland and Greenland; an element that has had a profound influence on his work and inspired the domino effect of sculptures that have changed the landscape of Inuit and Canadian art.
Hence, his adamant and compelling insistence to be recognized as a
legitimate, Canadian contemporary artist, of Inuit ancestry. An appellative
that the Canadian art world has to reconcile and move away from is the premise that people from the North, artistically speaking, can only envisage hunters, marine mammals such as narwhal, walrus and seal,
Arctic birds and/or conventional portrayals of Inuit women with children in parkas.
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Abraham at his studio. © Lou ruffolo
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Tree of Life Brazilian Soapstone, Marine Plywood and Steel 152.4 x 243.84cm, #0391, 2015 photographed by Daniel Dabrowski
This exhibition consists of 24 sculptures dating from 2009 to 2015.
The selected works are from the Kipling Gallery Collection as well as from
private and corporate collectors. When viewing these works the viewer can appreciate and experience the complexity of each composition and the artistic dexterity required to render the intricacies and nuances of the artwork.
ruben is an artist constantly challenging himself to further develop
his special techniques to create even more interesting compositions. His quest explores new ways to interpret the many stories, myths and
legends of the past by pushing the boundaries of his compositions with
shapes and sizes that illustrate a sophisticated understanding of
engineering and visual effect. This is evident in Ancient Evenings Under the Northern Lights. In this work, ruben has incorporated metal rods in
order to give the stone the required structural integrity to create the composition that he envisioned.
The artist constantly faces the challenges of finding new ways to
interpret the ideas that become a revolving door in his mind and thus
become very intimate and personal. And this intimate and personal approach in ruben’s art finds common ground in the stone presentation.
ruben has pushed the envelope to new heights, creating new
masterful works specifically for this exhibition, such as The Tree of Life,
The decision to publish ruben’s working drawings is intended to
constructed of multiple pieces of stone. This work is designed as a wall
dispel any misunderstanding by acknowledging his formal training and to
in this exhibition, and they are an indication that ruben enjoys the
nothing will come (Ex nihilo nihil fit), so runs the Latin adage. This artist’s
piece, as ruben has defined it. This is one of three bas-reliefs presented freedom to express himself through his craft and is always moving forward without hesitation or inhibition of his interpretation.
Talented and open to explore the intricacies of sculpting, ruben
confirm that great art does not materialize out of nowhere. out of nothing, accomplishments are the fruits of his intensive and unrelenting love for his art and his calling.
I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Cosimo stifani who
sometimes relies on the formal training he received at the University of
gave of his time to write the essay for this exhibition and also for the
and drawings and then to execute them, as is the case with this series
“Aurora Borealis” exhibition, taking place at The prince of Wales Heritage
Alaska, Fairbanks, to convey his ideas first through preliminary sketches
of bas-reliefs. In fact, this is the first exhibition in which one of his working drawings will be published.
enumerable hours we spent in deep discussion on the naming of the Centre, in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, until April 30, 2016, and the title of this exhibition, “Beyond Aurora Borealis,” taking place at the Museum of Inuit Art (MIA) until May 21, 2016.
The Webster dictionary defines beyond as a degree or amount of
surpassing; something that is beyond; something that lies outside the scope of ordinary experience.
ruben has the ability to go beyond what is thought of as being
conventional, to conceive and create images, incorporate forms, volumes, perspectives and abstractions of the ideas that freely flow from his mind to stone: “Beyond Aurora Borealis”.
rocco pannese
Sigurd the Dragon Slayer Brazilian Soapstone, Marine Plywood and Steel 152.4 x 91.5cm, #0392, 2015 photographed by the artist
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
47
sCIENCE These pike and trout are representative of the high-protein diet of Inuit in Greenland. Image courtesy of Western Arctic National parklands
Genome sequencing suggests Inuit are adapted to the Arctic Can you remember poké-
Humans have adapted to all kinds of differ-
other environmental challenges, like hungry
for instance, certain human populations have
summer. Consequently, the humans that have
mon toys — those cute
ent environments. In Africa and southeast Asia,
appeared in everything
genetic adaptations for malaria resistance, and
mammalian critters that from videogames to comics to animated
television? one of the
coolest pokémon characters, at least from a scientific point of view, was Eevee: a rabbiteared, bushy-tailed fox-like animal. Eevee was
exceptional because she had an unstable
genetic code and thus could evolve — through “Eeveelution” — new traits suitable for extreme environments, such as intense cold. pokémon
some believe that the short stature of pygmies in central Africa is an adaptation to the low
levels of UV light or the high heat and humidity of rainforests. similarly, populations from the
elevated plains of the rift Valley in Ethiopia
and Kenya are believed to have adaptations for survival at high altitude, which is perhaps one
adapt to a wide-range of factors. The precise
nature of these adaptations is largely unknown, but a recent genetic survey of Greenland Inuit
is providing some promising insights into human evolution in the Arctic.
An international team of scientists led by
some of the most extreme environments
population of Greenland are adapted to a cold
there is a wee bit of Eevee and a whole lot of
can have limited food and freshwater sources,
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the ancestors of present-day Inuit, have had to
University College London geneticist Matteo
world-class distance runners.
on the planet are found in the Arctic. In addi-
Eeveelution in each one of us.
traditionally existed in these areas, including
of the reasons why they regularly produce
is fictional, but all living things are capable of
adapting to their environments. In other words,
polar bears in winter and thirsty mosquitoes in
tional to frigid temperatures, northern regions high winds, sustained periods of darkness, and
Fumagalli found evidence that the indigenous
climate and a diet rich in fat. The team compared
the genes — the instruction booklets for life —
from hundreds of Greenland Inuit to the genes from other ethnic groups, including people of
2016 | 01
sCIENCE
European ancestry and Han Chinese. These
prior to the Inuit split from Native Americans,
This has led to tens of millions of Westerners
between the Greenland genes and those from
Bering strait. This also suggests that genetic
to prevent heart disease. But the benefits of
comparisons revealed interesting differences outside the Arctic.
The researchers found that certain Inuit
genes contain changes that are tailored to cold weather. some of these changes are to genes
involved in the processing of fatty acids, which
when their ancestors lived in or around the adaptations observed in the Greenland Inuit
likely exist in other indigenous groups throughout Canada, russia, and the U.s., although to what extent still remains to be proven.
What does all this mean for Inuit and non-
is not surprising given that the traditional Inuit
Inuit populations? For one, it indicates that the
The precise consequences of the changes to
hardwired for a diet rich in fatty acids, particu-
diet is largely based on fatty-acid-rich seafood.
these fatty acid genes are not completely clear, but it is thought that they have led to Greenland
Inuit being comparatively smaller and lighter than other human populations. The scientists
also identified other categories of genes in the Greenlanders that appear to be catered to life
in a cold climate, including one that counteracts high-fat-diet-induced obesity — a finding that
will certainly be of interest to drug companies and the weight-loss industry.
The genetic adaptations uncovered in the
study are thought to be very old, existing long
disputed, and the idea that Westerners lack the genetic adaptations to efficiently process high doses of omega-3 fatty acids will only add further doubt to these practices.
Ultimately, these new findings on Greenland
genetics reinforce the notion that dietary
larly the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids
Inuit might differ from those of other populations.
commonly found in fish and seal meat. A consequence of this hardwiring, however, is that Inuit tend to be about an inch shorter and
10-pounds lighter than human populations
that aren’t adapted to a fatty-acid-rich diet,
which partly explains the lack of professional
Inuit basketball players—although U.s. college basketball star Derek Willis at six foot, nine inches and 220 pounds of Inuit descent is an exception to the rule.
The study also raises questions about the
health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. In the
ago. In fact, many of the genetic changes likely
heart disease in Inuit and concluded that it was
occurred well over ten thousand years ago,
fish oil, particularly for non-Inuit, have been
Inuit, unlike people of European ancestry, are
before the Inuit first settled Greenland, which
is believed to be less than a thousand years
eating more fish and taking fish oil supplements
1970s, Danish scientists uncovered low rates of a result of a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids.
Traditional Inuit art captures the beauty, truth and spirit of Canada’s Arctic
requirements and recommendations for the studying the genetic make-up of other aboriginal populations will be invaluable in determining what food, medicine, and treatments work best
for those groups, based on their unique features
and heritage. A future of personalized medicine and healthcare that is customized for specific
populations may sound as fictional as pokémon, but it is not far off.
Jenny Ge and David smith
Jenny Ge is a fourth-year undergraduate student studying Genetics at the University of Western ontario. she is currently investigating fatty acid genes in Canadian Inuit for an Honours research project. David smith is an assistant professor in the Biology Department at Western. You can find him online at www.arrogantgenome.com.
“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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BooKsHELF
The Kuujjuaq Christmas Candy Drop Linda Brand Translated by Ida saunders Illustrated by François Gauvreau Canada Aviation and space Museum December 2015
“In Inuit lands, where cold Arctic winds blow,
Where there are few trees and great rivers flow,
A courageous young boy they called Johnny May”
… is the inspiration for this children’s book based
on the life of Johnny May, pilot and owner of Johnny May Charters in Kuujjuaq, Nunavik. With beautiful colour illustrations, this book outlines the life of Johnny May as he becomes a pilot in
Northern Quebec, delivering supplies, patients, fuel, equipment, food and mail. Flying more hours than most pilots, Johnny May has become a legend in his hometown and an inspiration to many
Kamik’s First sled Adapted from the Memories of Matilda sulurayok Illustrated by Qin Leng Inhabit Media october 2015
young pilots over the years. Dedicated to the children of Nunavik and all other northern commu-
nities, The Kuujjuaq Christmas Candy Drop celebrates Johnny and the Inuit and personal traditions he loves to share. A Lexicon is also included at the back of the book with common words from the story in Inuktitut and syllabics.
Adapted from the memories of author
and Elder Matilda sulurayok, Kamik’s First Sled, is another adventure about Kamik, the Inuit puppy, and his owner
Jake. As Kamik continues to grow, Jake must learn how to handle his rambunctious puppy and train him to pull a dog
sled team. With some help from his grandmother, and from the knowledge
he has learned, Jake and Kamik brave a
blizzard across the tundra and learn dog-rearing practices at the same time.
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
polar Bears on the Edge Heading for Extinction while Management Fails Morten Jorgensen spitsbergen-svalbard.com, 2015
Danish veteran, Arctic guide and traveller, Morten Jørgensen brings the reader a passionate analysis of the current status of the polar bear. In this eye-opening account, interspersed with
beautiful photographs, the author argues that it is not only climate change that is a threat to polar bear survival but also
the present management practices of the species are insufficient to protect them. He documents scientific data to show how
management policies can be transformed to allow these
creatures to survive. His urgent recommendations regarding hunting, trade, and bear refuges urge Inuit hunters, conservation institutions and governments to act before it’s too late.
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GUEsT EDITorIAL
Alicia Aragutak of Umiujaq, Nunavik, president of the newly formed Nunavik Youth Forum, during its first meeting at Makivik Corporation’s Montreal office, September 2015. © Makivik Corporation/Teevi Mackay
Invest in youth
Nunavik Youth forum: A new beginning for the
We are planning five-day coastal consultations
motivated youth, we are ready to get the ball
to say. This phase is really important for us
Youth of Nunavik! With a full new board of rolling!
Nunavik Youth Forum’s new mission state-
ment:
“To represent the Nunavik Inuit Youth and
provide them with opportunities and knowl-
edge so that their quality of life improves, they empower themselves and that they realize
There is a great thirst for knowledge in our
within Nunavik to hear what the youth have
region and I am sure when I say that, I speak on
because, from these consultations, we plan to
youngsters to take the time to see who your
initiate priorities for programs and to also
represent the youth in the several seats we hold within different major organizations. We
would like to ensure our full, accurate repre-
sentation of the youth in Nunavik and beyond. We’ve been creating links to our communi-
behalf of all the regions in the North. I encourage community representatives are. Keep your-
selves informed of their mandates and what their current issues and topics are. It is you who will take on these roles and responsibilities in the coming days.
on behalf of the Nunavik Youth Forum, we
their full potential as responsible citizens and
ties through the board and social media. We
would like to once again show our appreciation
shall be at the heart of the mission of the
received since this entity was created, especially
the youth in your communities. Invest in the
leaders. The Inuit culture, language and identity Nunavik Youth Forum.”
This shows how much work and difference
this new body wants to create within our region. Currently, Nunavik Youth Forum has priori-
tized to reach out to the youth in the region.
are grateful for the mass of support we’ve from Makivik. I am also very excited to start working with the National Inuit Youth Council;
we are happy to be linked with the rest of Inuit
Nunangat. Hats off to all the great work you’ve done for your youth.
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
to those who have taken the time to support
youth; they hold the future in the coming generations.
Nakurmiik!
Alicia Aragutak
president, Nunavik Youth Forum
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INUIT ForUM
our political footprints are everywhere
© Letia obed
Congratulations to our prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for taking action on his promise to enter into a renewed nationto-nation relationship with indigenous peoples in Canada. I do not have a reciprocal pledge, as we have been waiting a long time in the space Trudeau now wishes to occupy with us. I can, however, pledge to welcome this new relationship with open arms and with decades of ideas on how to work together, which may be new to government but are certainly not new to Inuit. Within the context of a distinctions-based approach to Canada’s First peoples, I have requested that our Inuit-specific relationship be termed a renewed “Inuit to Crown” relationship, as our place in Canada rests within the context of our settled land claim agreements, and established constitutional and international Indigenous peoples rights, all of which are in part held federally with the Crown. I am thankful that the prime Minister has such respect for us as to add the primacy of our relationship in each of his mandate letters to his Cabinet Ministers. These mandated instructions promise Inuit that all Government of Canada Ministers, and in turn federal departments, will meaningfully engage with us across the political spectrum on all of our issues that link with the federal government. It is a pledge to treat Inuit and our issues with the respect that has already been given to us by the courts, through legislation, and by international instruments such as the United Nations Declaration on the rights of Indigenous peoples.
His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau share a laugh with throat singers Samantha Metcalfe and Cailyn DeGrandpre at a ceremony in November, at Rideau Hall, to swear in the new cabinet. © MCpl Vincent Carbonneau, rideau Hall, osGG
It opens the possibility that we can meaningfully work on our most pressing Inuit issues, such as housing, education, lnuktut, suicide prevention, infrastructure development, climate change, research, and land claims implementation, even if these issues may not have been mentioned specifically in the speech from the Throne or the Liberal platform. It opens up the possibility for greater Inuit equity, and I am excited to engage within this framework. During this time of optimism, it is important to recognize that our relationship with Canada should not be driven by the character of a politician or sympathy of a political party. Let this be the last time a political platform runs on a renewed relationship with its indigenous peoples, and let this be a start of a new established and
primary role that Inuit, First Nations, and Metis play within all matters that affect us. so, just like in the 1970s when we justified our land claims with mandated land use and occupancy studies that explained to government on their terms how we owned our land, we now embark on a similar issues-based exercise to inform this new government about our priority areas, how to understand them, and ultimately work together to resolve them. Let us hope that the outcome of this exercise is a new and permanent way that government and Inuit work together for the betterment of Inuit and Canada.
Natan obed
president, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami
Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami 75 Albert Street, Suite 1101 Ottawa, ON K1P 5E7 t. (613) 238.8181
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