Tusaayaksat – Jan/Feb 2007

Schedule for 2007!

The following is the coordinated schedule for the public hearings by the Joint Review Panel (JRP) and the National Energy Board (NEB) for the proposed Mackenzie Gas Project.

The NEB began its hearings in Inuvik on January 25, 2006 and concluded these initial hearings in Inuvik on December 14, 2006

The JRP began its hearings in Inuvik on February 14, 2006 On November 10, 2006, Justice Phelan of the Federal Court of Canada issued his Judgement in a court challenge initiated by the Dene Tha’ First Nation concerning the proposed Mackenzie Gas Project. This Judgement has i mplications for the environmental impact review process being conducted by the JRP. While complying with Justice Phelan’s Judgement, the JRP will continue to fulfill its mandate, within the constraints of the Judgement. As a result, the JRP has made amendments to its schedule.

Please note: With respect to all of the following hearings, the JRP will not consider evidence on matters involving the Connecting Facilities or the territory in which the Dene Tha’ First Nation have or have asserted Aboriginal or treaty rights. The JRP anticipated that it may need to revisit these topics in the context of the Connecting Facilities or the territory in which the Dene Tha’ First Nation have or have asserted Aboriginal or treaty rights.

For more information about the public hearings, locations or how to participate, please contact the Northern Gas Project Secretariat in Inuvik at 867-678-8600, by phoning toll free 1-866-372-8600 or on the Internet at www.ngps.nt.ca.

Please note: It is not necessary to register in advance to speak to the Joint Review Panel during Community Hearings, but registering in advance will assist in developing a speaker’s list, as many people may want to speak during the hearing.

When are the public hearings in 2007? Note the hearings scheduled for Inuvik, Aklavik and Tuktoyaktuk in January and February

JRP Inuvik Jan. 8 Community Hearing (CH)

JRP Inuvik Jan. 9 General Hearing (GH) – Open CH

JRP Inuvik Jan. 11-12 GH – Topic #11 Project-related Economic Costs and Physical Infrastructure Impacts

JRP Inuvik Jan. 15 - 16 GH – Continuation of Topic #7 Wildlife and Wildlife Habitat, including Birds and Bird Habitat (includes effects on the Kendall Island Bird Sanctuary)

JRP Aklavik Jan. 18 Community Hearing (CH)

JRP Yellowknife Feb. 6-8 GH – Topic #9 Education, Training, Employment and Procurement

JRP Tuktoyaktuk Feb. 10 CH

JRP Inuvik Feb. 12-14 GH – Topic #13 Responding to Socio-cultural Impacts

JRP Edmonton Feb. 26 GH – Open

JRP Inuvik Mar. 13 GH – Topic #12 Harvesting and Other Land Use

JRP Inuvik Mar. 15-16 GH – Topic #14a Environmental (Biophysical) Management Plans, Monitoring and Follow-up Programs

JRP Yellowknife Mar. 19-20 GH – Topic #14a Environmental (Socio-cultural and Economic) Management Plans, Monitoring and Follow-up Programs

Trapped Beluga Whales

When beluga whales were trapped at Husky Lakes, a decision had to be made on whether to harvest them. The whales did not continue on their migration to Russia through an available ocean channel before it froze, and had to share one air hole in the ice to stay alive. “ The animals were getting thin, it is cruel to let them starve,” said Paul Voudrach, ENR officer and Chair of the Tuktoyaktuk HTC. “DFO should be applauded for providing us with the resources to do what we had to do.”

The beluga harvest took place from November 16th23rd . “We had a difficult time with locating the whales on the first day. We found the opening in the ice on the 17th November, but it was difficult because the rope that held the harpoon heads kept breaking. We began with five harpoon heads, and ended up with only one. The anchor for the 50-yard rope, with a harpoon head on the other end, was about 25 yards from the opening. Once a whale is harpooned, there is a tug of war. From the amount of slack in the rope, we get an idea of where the whale would surface, and then it is harvested with a rifle. We had eight hunters on site. All eight people would pull on the rope until the whale just about reached the surface. A hook would be used to get it on the ice, and then we began the butchering.”

Paul commended the eight hunters, Chuckie Gruben (crew leader), Sam Pingo (a previous harvester from ’89) and Ronald Felix, Joseph Jr. Felix, Jonas Lucas, Jeffery Adams, Alvin Silauchiaq, and Roy Kimiksana. “I really applaud the hunters for their efforts. It was outstanding. It is quite challenging, actually, to butcher the whale right on the ice. With the summer hunt, after the whale is harpooned, you have a balloon on the line so you can follow the whale. When you do that, the rope does not break.”

“With this hunt, when the whale pulls with all its strength, it breaks the ice and the anchor is lost. We had several incidents like that. Thirty-nine whales were shot, but we lost two due to this.”

Paul was onsite to represent ENR. “There were also three DFO people onsite taking samples. We all helped with pulling out the whales.”

Paul said the whales had lost a lot of weight. “They were still edible. As the hunters were butchering, they ate some of the maktak, and it is still good. It is too late to try to dry the whale meat, but most of the meat harvested is going out to dog owners (for dog feed.)”

Harvested for Good Cause

If any Inuvialuit living within the ISR would like some maktak, they can call the Tuktoyaktuk HTC office at (867)977-2457.

flew out on the 19 th of November, and located some belugas still trapped near the Liverpool Bay area. “The HTC decided not to harvest them, because the area is too dangerous right now. We are going to see if we can do something about it in January,” Paul concluded. On Nov 29 th, the Beaufort Delta Regional Council commended Tuktoyaktuk hunters for providing free maktak to the communities.

Thenext organized hunt to benefit the community in Tuktoyaktuk will likely be for caribou. Paul indicated that a proposal has been submitted to ITI since July, and hopefully the funds necessary for the hunt will come through soon.

Photos Top (L-R): 1. Jonas Lucas preparing to throw harpoon and Sam Pingo on the other end. 2. Aaron Schweitzer (DFO, Inuvik), Jack Orr (DFO, Winnipeg) and Chucky Gruben 3. Joseph Felix Jr. (L) and Paul Voudrach (R). This photo: Preparing for the harvest: Roy Kimiksana, Sam Pingo, Chucky Gruben, Ronald Felix and Joseph Felix Jr.

“We’re going to have a Beluga Christmas,” said Paul.

“People from the local community have taken some of it. There are pails of maktak that we are sending off to Sachs Harbour and Ulukhaktok. We also have people coming from Aklavik to pick up some of the whale.”

DFO

Mary Evik: Keeping Healthy in Mind, Spirit and Body

“You want to interview me, in French?” laughed Mary Evik, and she threw out a few simple phrases of French banter. This Inuvialuit elder might be born a midget, but to those that have met the eighty-one year old woman, what stands out about Mary is the immensity of her good spirit. Although she is wheelchair bound, Mary still participates in social events in Paulatuk, and never misses a chance to slip some firm and friendly advice to teenagers. “You smoke?” She asked a chastened teen who walked by with a trail of tabacco scent, her expression saying much more than words. Emma, one of her granddaughters said, “Evik is a really healthy woman, in mind, spirit and body. She lives with amazing cultural values.” In Paulatuk, people go to Mary to hear stories about the area’s history and people. They are never disappointed.

Mary was born in Kiglavak, across from Tuktoyaktuk, in 1925. Her family moved back to Tuktoyaktuk when she was five years old. Mary has many memories about her mother, and she often compares modern life to the past. “Long ago, when our mum raised us, she showed us how to sew and to cook. She trained us really well on preserving the food we got during the summer, so we can have food for the winter,” she said. “We’ll dig the ground, put some willow and wood at the bottom, and the permafrost kept the food fresh. If you leave the meat out, it’ll become poisonous. Long ago, we didn’t have freezers. If we wanted fish in the winter, we leave it on the frozen ground for a while. Then in the morning we ate quaq (frozen fish).”

“In the summer,

Summer was the only time when we made dry or smoked fish. We like quaq but in the summer there’s no way we could make it in the ground!” She paused, “Look at what I have now,” and pointed to appliances in her living room. “A freezer, a cooking stove, a washer, a dryer, everything… Long ago we used scrubbing boards for laundry. It was a tough life, then. Boy, I wished my mum was living so she could see this…But my parents enjoyed their life. They lived in Tuktoyaktuk at first, and when they had a boat, they travelled all over. In the past, we had no kickers in our boats, and we did oaring to travel. My brothers and sisters would do the oaring though, haha, I would sit in the boat and tell them stories.”

Mary’s family lived at Letty Harbour before Paulatuk became a settlement area. “Father (Dehurtevent, a catholic priest) came here, and had a little shack on the point. The missionary then moved when they found Paulatuk was the best spot to find Arctic Char. They used to have dog teams and having all that fish was the best thing for the dogs. Long ago, we didn’t have skidoos, or running water. And that was how Paulatuk started. In 1937, we started living around here.”

“Paulatuk is great for hunting and fishing. It was the best place, handy for everything. You can pick up all kinds of berries and big leaves (qungliluq), we used to cook them for food. Our mum used to make jam with the berries sometimes. You can see lots of nice country around here.”

She remembers houses they used to live in. “The old houses were tents with ice. We didn’t stay in one place, we moved around looking for good trapping spots and for caribou. We used to burn all our garbage in the stove, we left the places so clean. Now, when you leave a camp, you see pampers everywhere. Long ago, we didn’t have pampers. We washed and reused our children’s diapers!”

Life was hard when they lived off the land, but Mary was taught to value a strong work ethic. “In the past, if mum taught us to do something and we didn’t do it right, she would make us do it all over again. We learnt how to cook, how to sew, and how to make drymeat and dryfish. Boys mostly learnt to hunt, but sometimes, they did make dryfish, or cooked if they are camping out.”

Sewing became a passion for Mary, her skills are

Mary is a prominent figure in Paulatuk. She is seen here participating in a Parks

P hotos courtesy of Mary Evik

widely admired. “I like to sew anything, mukluks, parkies, mitts. I learnt by watching my mum. I especially like making parkies. Long ago we used to make Holman Island parkies (qasunga), I like making that kind of parky. We used to make siksik (squirrel) parkies too, they make the best fancy parkies for occasions, like Christmas parties.”

When she was thirteen, Mary attended the RC residential school in Aklavik. “Father (priest) would say prayers for us in church. We learnt how to knit mitts and bonnets for small kids. Life was harder in school. Nuns were different. You weren’t allowed to do much. I went home after Grade 2. I can read and write, in English and in Inuvialuktun. It was a change of lifestyle to come back home again, but it was a good change. Our mum treated us better after we had been away. Long ago, when foreigners came it became a problem when we didn’t know how to read and write, so we had to go to school to learn.”

To help her parents get fur for extra income, Mary maintained her own little trapline. “Mona, Nora and I used to walk to the trapline at night, in the moonlight. We used to pull a woodsled. We were always busy until bedtime. We didn’t have running water at that time. We trapped foxes and rabbits. In the falltime, we use seal as bait for trapping foxes. The foxes would smell it and in the fall time there is lots of open water, so you can get more foxes.” She had less traps than Mona or Nora, “I am so slow, they finish setting two traps before I finish one.” She laughs. “We used to take our time to visit our traps and we made stops to smoke. Oh, how many smokes! On a long day we are never in a rush, but if it gets dark we have to rush because it gets really dangerous with wolves and things like that.”

“After we finished our work, we would go outside and play in the moonlight. We used to play mujahmajah “Prisoner Base”. You should see the moon then. It was big.”

As a woman, Mary took her role as a mother seriously. She adopted a daughter and was also a foster parent. “When we were young, our mum taught us how to treat children. We were told to raise them to be good, so they will do the right thing when they are older. Our mum also taught us to be kind to elderly people, that we should not answer them back.

Now that I am an elder, I think, haha, no wonder mum used to teach us to do things right away. Because now when I ask my grandkids to do something, they might say, Granny, can we do it later?”

“When we had kids, we made their clothing. My mum would do the cooking, and we would gather the wood and ice. My mum was not in good health, so we lived together. Men started working on the DEWLine and making money. Women stayed home and made money sewing mukluks and clothing for people who worked on the DEWLine.”

Mary also became part of the Native Women's Association of Canada . “Bertha Allen asked me to join. We used to fly out for meetings in Yellowknife and Inuvik, all over. Our job was to come back home to tell the women in our village what we discussed and learnt. We talked about getting more education, getting things to work in the community, and how to look after our children. And we tried, you know…I did for 3 years. I knew the language and would translate for all the native elders from our communities.It was hard for me to keep going to meetings because my health was not so good then.”

It is still important for Mary to help the next generations stay on the right track. “Long ago, we lived poor. I like to live a normal life, not too rich, just right. Now, we’ve too much of everything, we don’t even know what we want anymore. It makes people lazy about working. Kids don’t care to walk further to hunt. Everybody is just looking for money, and being really spoilt. We have too many scheds (flights into Paulatuk) now. They bring up alcohol and drugs. it’s not even funny.”

“Life has changed, really changed. I won’t say I am good, but I do keep my grandchildren away from all that. I am really proud of my youngest granddaughter, Kristen Green. She got into the Canadian Winter Games. She’s really good,” laughed Mary.

Mary in earlier years, with her grandchild. Canada event.

Mary Evik: Iluaqtukun Inuuvaktuq

“Frenchmatun apiqsurukpinga?” igalaklunilu Frenchtun uqachatituaq sivikitumik. Una tajva Inuvialuk mikigaluaqtuq 81-nik ukiulik, issuma suangayuq. Pisulaitkaluaqluni suli aglan ilausuuyuq qanurliqaa Paulatuumi, titugisuitkait iluatun uqautigamigit nutaqat kituliqaa. “Sigaaqpakpit?” apiritqara nutaraq apqusaarman sigaarmik naimanaqibluni. Emma, inrutaalua imana uqalaktuaq, “Evik iluaqtukun inuuvaktuaq. Pitqusini puiguyuitkait”. Paulatuumi inuit upakpagat naalagiaqlugu quliaqtuarangan, alianaigivialukat.

1925-mi Mary aniyuaq Kiglavakmi, Tuktoyaktuum akiani. Tallimanik ukiuniklunilu Tuktoyaktuumun nuutuat. Amaamani puiguyuitka, inuusiqlu ingilraan qangmunga aglan. “Ingilraan, amaamangma inugurmatigut miqurnikunlu iganikunlu illisautivagainni. Auyami niqsaqtat niqit munaqiriquvagait, ukiumi niqiksat”, “Nuna nivaklutigu, uqpingniklu qiyungniklu natqa illiqiblugu, niqit ilivakavut, qiqichiqlugit. Niqit silami itkumik ami suinarurniarmata. Taimani ami qiqichiiviitugut. Iqalukturuktuni ukiumi qiqsat quariktut.

“Auyami sulliqa siqiniqtitalivakavut. Auyami kisiani pipsiliuqpaktuanni isiqtilugit. Taimani quarulirnaqtuq auyami. “Qangma hii takuluang”, tikkuaklunilu. “Qiqichiivik, ingnirvik, iqaqsivik, anuraanun paniqsiivik, tamaita… Ingilraan ulugvingnun iqaqasivaktuanni. Inuusiq taimani sapirnalaaqtuq. Amaamaga inuutqugaluariga makuat takumayaksait… aglaan ilaka inuusiriktuk taimani. Tuktoyaktuumi itqaaqlutik umianikamik sumuliqa sanguvaliqtuak. Taimani ingniqutaitut umiavut , iputaqpatuanni. Aniqatitka iputaqtilugit, haha,

unipqaarutivakatka iksivaugaqlunga”.

Mary-m ilak Letty Harbour-mi itpaktuak Paulatuumuksimaitilugit inuit. “Father Dehurtevent qaigami igluruaqtuaq nuvugaalungmi. Nuutuat aasiin Paulatuumun iqalugiknirman. Taimani qimiruaqlutik inuit iqaluit quyalitauvialuktuat. Ingilraan skiiduitugut, qangmatun imaruangitugut aulayumik igluptingni. Tajva taimana Paulatuk aulaqiyuaq.1937-mi Paulatuumun inuuniakiktuanni”.

Paulatuk nunagiktuq nirutaubluni iqalugiklunilu. Nunagingniqsachiaq. Asialu qungilitlu tamaja nunami, amaamangma igavagait taimani. Nunakput quvianaqtuq.

Puiguyuitkait iglootik taimani. “Igloovut tupqit sikumik avaluyat. Nutqangasuitugut taimani, sangusuuyugut naniriatukviit nakuuyut qiniqlugit, tuktunulu. Iqakuvut ikipkaqpakavut ingnirviptingnun, salumaklugit qimakpakavut inivut nayuqtavut. Ingilraan makarnik suituq. Uvaptigun iqaqsibluta pivaktuanni.

Inuuniartuni nunami sapirnaqtuq ilaanni, aglan Mary ilisaqsimayuq savaakun. “Taimani amaamapta tiliyraangatigut savaakun kiglukuagapta pipsaaqtitpagaini. Ilituanni iganikun, miqurnikun, pipsiliurnikunlu. Nukatpiqat anguniarnikun ilisaqpaktuat, ilaani aglaan pipsiliupalukpangmiyuat igablutiklu inmingnik aulaaraangamik.

Evik

Miquuyarniq Mary-m nakuugivialuka, savktait qaamangnaqtut. “Kamiuqlungalu atigiliuqlungalu pualiuqlungalu pivaktuami. Amaamaga qungiataqlugu. Atigiliurniq alianaigivialukiga. Ingilraan qusungiuqpakturaluani qangmalitun. Ilaaniptauq siksigit amiinik atikiupanmiyuani, savaringniqsaachiat, Christmarnirmi atimavagait.

Photo courtesy of Jim Kalinek.

13-nik ukiuniklunilu Mary ilisariaqtuaq RC-t ilisarvianun Aklavik-mi. “Fathum qingautivagaini. Sunikliqa miquuyaqpaktuani. Nanginarniqtuaq ilisarvingmi. Ilisaujit alangablutik, suyaksailiqivaktuani. Taigulasituarama aglalasigamalu taniktun Inuvialuktunlu aiyuami (Grade 2). Aigapta alianaingayak, amaamapta quviagigaatigut. Taimani tangit qaiyaraangata nunaptingnun ilisaqsimaituni sapirnalaaqtuk”

Mary ikayuqpaktuaq aimagami naniriaqtuqluni. “Mona-lu Nora-lu uvangalu pisukluta unuami tatqiariksiyaraangan naniriavut takuyaqtuqpakavut, qamutik qimuklugit. Nutqangasuitugut ublukaluk. Imaruangitugut qangamatun taimani. Tiriganialu ukalilu naniriaqpakavut, ukiaksami nachirnik narijiqpakavut. Ukiaksami wiiniq qaninman tiriganiaqinaqtuq” Naniriakituq Mona-minlu Nora-minlu taimani. “Kayumiilam uvanga, malrungnik nanirijiraangamik atausiqli ningitpagara”. Iglaqlunilu. “Qilamiiqsuyuitugut takuyaqturaangaptigit naniriavut, sigaalaabluta. Aaqali sigaayaaqpaktugut! Ublumi qilamiiqsuyuitugut aglaan daaqsiyaraangan sukasivaktuani usiik iqsim amaquniklu sunikliqa”.

Evik

“Savaavut inirmata silami piuyariaqpaktuanni tatqiaringmi. Majahmajaaqpaktuanni. Tatqiq taimani angiyuq”

Munaqsivakturli tajva inuugami. Paniruaqtuq tiguaqtaminik.

“Niviaqsiugapta amaamapta ilisautivagainni nutaqatigun. Iluatun munaritquvagait, nakuuyukun inuusiruaqublugit inmigualirumik. Angayuklivut kiumatqusuitkait. Qangma aasiin ilichuriyara amaamangma uqausia.

“Nutaqavut anuraaliuqpakavut. Uvagut qiyuktaqluta sikusaqlutalu, amaamakput igamatilugu. Amaamaga nangingamluni nayuqpaqaqput munariblugu. Angutit DEWLine-mi savaqsimata uvagut arnat paibluta miquqpaktuanni tuniyaksaptingnik savaktuannun”.

Mary ilauvangmiyuaq uvani, “Native Women’s Association of Canada” “Bertha Allen apiriblunga. Yellowknife-mun Inuvik-munlu katimavakpaktuanni tingmiyualuktigun aulabluta. Ilisarnikun, nutaqatigunlu, inuuniarutikput nayuqtaptingni tutqiqsitqublugu. Pingasuni ukiuni ilaupaluktuami tajvani. Inuvialuktun mumiktitpakatka inirnirnun nunaptingni. Aniangablunga taimani nangitpaktuami”.

Mary-m nutaat inuit ilurimun sivuniuqugaluagait tajva. “Ingilraan suiluta inuuvaktuanni. Qangma inuupalukapta nakuuyuq. Ingattaumiqtuaq qangma sunaliqa pimasuklugu, savayanganaqiyuaq, savaaksaq iqiagilqtuatun iliblugu. Nutaqat ungavanun anguniarunriqlutik. Tingmiyualuilu utiqtaataliqlutik Paulatuumun ingataviktuaq. Immirlu taangaq, sigaaqluklu tamaja, suksaungivialuktuq”.

“Inuusiq alanguvialuktuaq. Nakuulunga pingitunga, aglan inrutaalutka munaqirivakatka. Nuqaqlik inrutaaluga Kristen quviagivialukiga. Canadian Winter Games-nun iluagaqsiyuaq”, iglaqtuq Mary quviasukluni.

Photos (L-R)

1. Miquyuvialuktuq Mary. Atigiliuqtait tutqiktut.

2. Mary-m takuyaqtuga Madeline Kalinek aniarvingmi Aklavik-mi.

3. Mary iluagami “Native Womenʼs Association of Canada” pingasuni ukiuni.

4. Mary taimani, inrutaalunilu.

Photos courtesy of Mary Evik

Name

Dez Zane Matthew Loreen

Age 23

Current occupation Editor of Inuvik Drum

Five words that best describe Dez:

Determined, focused, witty, jaded and inquisitive

What wild animal do you most relate to? Why?

Gotta be a polar bear. A gentle one that doesnʼt like confrontations. But, hey. Heʼs a bear so donʼt mess with him.

Childhood Ambition:

I have always wanted to be involved in media. At a young age, I knew that I wanted people to see my face and hear my voice. I didnʼt think I would have accomplished so much in such a short period of time though.

Your job means:

Being the editor of the community newspaper is a great accomplishment to me. I take pride in my work and try to put my best foot forward. When I walk on the streets, people come to me with their thoughts! Itʼs great for the younger generation as well. I want to illustrate to our youth that if they stay determined, that any career they want to pursue is within their grasp.

Indicate three ages that meant the most to you, and why:

AGE 8: It was my first time living in Edmonton. I got to know a world outside of the Beaufort-Delta. It was intimidating, but I remember meeting friends and learning life lessons that still apply. I came back to Inuvik the next year with a greater understanding about what I could do if given the opportunity.

KEEPING AN EYE ON THE ISR

AGE 12: Grade Seven. Metallica came to Tuk for the biggest concert of our lives. After meeting lead singer James Hetfield, I was immediately turned onto hard music forever. This was also the first time I used ʻDezʼ instead of ʻDesmondʼ.

AGE 19: My graduating year of high school. I had previously quit school twice, and I came back knowing that I could only succeed with a proper education. I thank all my teachers and family for showing me the way.

This was also the year that my grandfather Martti Tapaninen, or True Leader passed onto the next life. It was hard for me and still is, but I feel better knowing that he waited until I graduated before leaving me. Everything I do is for him. I built my whole life after that manʼs ideals. He spent a lot of time raising me and teaching me about the way the world works. I consider myself to be his son and I will always love him for the sacrifices he made for me to have a comfortable life. I draw my inspiration from his strength.

AGE 23: This past year has been a big one for me. I have accomplished so much with my career and in my personal life. I spent some time living in Yellowknife, learning my craft. I came home and settled into a new life. Iʼm starting to be more compassionate about the feelings of the people around me.

Biggest Challenge:

Living up to my own potential and making my grandfather proud. I know he will always be proud of me, like every parent is. But I want to push myself higher and farther than I have ever dreamed possible. That all starts in the morning, with getting out of bed. I pride myself on my determination. That, and my trait of being stubborn. I make bad decisions all the time, but I can own up to them. I think the biggest downfall in modern society is that people lie to themselves. Lying to others is one thing, but always be honest with yourself.

Wildest Dream:

I want to host a party for everyone I care about. I want to gather all of my friends, family and even a few strangers on a cruise ship. We will start the party in Alaska, move down to the west coast, pick up even more people and then head south. I want to walk around and see people from every stage of my life, right from my grade one teacher all the way through to my current bosses. I think a grand party is a justified way to show my thanks and appreciation to the people who have shaped me into what I am today.

Best Anti-stress Strategy:

I have a couch in my office, so when I need to take a break, I just sit down, stretch out and close my eyes. I am big into thinking and dreaming. If I can distance myself from stress and be at peace for a few moments, everything will be okay.

Perfect Day:

I really donʼt like conflict, or confrontation. If I could go a full day in my life without dealing with any problems, I would be fine. Iʼm not hard to please, just my XBOX 360, some chocolate milk and some friends is a perfect day for me.

Being an Inuvialuit man means:

Having a role in the life of the land and animals around us. While I am not the best spokesperson for the traditional way of life, I do understand the importance of sustaining our life, the way it used to be. My elders fought for our right to be in control of our region. I want to find my place in the system and use my resources to ensure that our people are the strongest aboriginal group in Canada.

What do you want to be remembered for?

Wow. Good question. Overall, I want people to look back at me being one of the most influential people to come from the north. Wherever my life takes me, I want people to remember my legacy in textbooks

A close runner up for greatest Canadian.

Age

Words by:

Caribou Impacts Workshop

ACaribou Impacts Workshop was held by WMAC and ENR in Inuvik this November, bringing together representatives from the ISR, Gwich'in and Sahtu region. Ruben Ruben, Vice-Chair of the Game Council said, “We came to this meeting, not to argue about the caribou survey numbers, but to discuss what we can do to minimize the impacts of the declining numbers.”

Duane Smith, Chair of the Inuvik Community Corporation, said participants broke up into six groups to come up with recommendations to address the issues surrounding the Bluenose herd’s decline. “The majority of the discussion was about how the caribou are being harvested, why the numbers are declining, and how to address the impacts.”

Duane said the workshop has left him convinced that the caribou numbers are indeed at a record low. “But this is not news to us, we have to face reality and try to get everyone onside with the recommendations so we can all work together to ensure the population rebounds,” he said. Recommendations from this meeting will go to the co-management bodies, which will then decide which recommendations to implement.

The impact of the declining herd on elders was an important topic of discussion.

ourselves voluntarily right now, but once it becomes law, we have to respect it.”

Duane stresses that it is a delicate situation, and requires balanced planning. “We are very cautious to use the term limits, because we recognize the need to have everybody supportive of the process. Otherwise, you’ll always have a few people out there who think it’s their right, no matter what, to go out there to get a caribou whenever they want.”

“We have had a lot of elders, youth, hunters and a wide variety of representation at the workshop, recognizing there will be less and less caribou on the table for every family out there, and there’s going to be an increased demand for other food sources. So there must also be a mechanism to monitor and ensure that we are not putting too much pressure on the other species, such as moose and fish.”

of

suggestions

Randal

Pokiak, a director for WMAC NWT, said, “The most impacted are the people who live off the land. Elders at hospitals who are accustomed to these foods will be affected. We might have to bend the laws a little bit so the elders will have caribou in their last days. There are many factors that impact the caribou’s migration patterns and population; however, as humans, one of the factors we can control is how we do our hunting and land development. Some people try to find loopholes in the law. But when you look at traditional values, when a hunt leader makes a law, you have to follow it for the greater good. People have to know that no means no, and we are not asking them to stop hunting forever. We are restricting

alternative food sources was to have a bartering system established between communities from the different regions. Randal Pokiak was also concerned about how TK (traditional knowledge) about caribou is continued to be passed on from father to son. “If it takes 50 years for the caribou to rebound, then a lot of elders here will be gone. The whole focus right now is to promote education in schools so we can maintain our cultural presence for the youth. We’ve got to bring the two together.”

One

the

for

Randal Pokiak found the caribou impacts workshop beneficial.

Photo of Bluenose Caribou by John Nagy, ENR

BobbieJo Greenland, youth facilator for the workshop said, “Caribou is essential to the Inuvialuit, Gwich’in and Sahtu culture. It is important for the youth to be here. At their age, they are balancing between the traditional life and the western life. These guys are doing a great job of increasing their awareness to make good informed decisions as future leaders. In the end, their decisions will impact themselves and the future of their children.”

We heard from some of the youth who attended the Youth Workshop:

Edward McLeod, Aklavik

"I learnt the caribou population is declining pretty quickly. I noticed it myself when I go hunting. We used to have two months to go hunting, but now we only have one because the caribou is passing really quickly. We usually get a lot of caribou and give them to the old folks home and to elders who can’t go out hunting themselves. So far, we continue hunting back home, because we have to help the elders."

Kayla Kudlak, Paulatuk

"I learnt that the caribou numbers need to keep growing. The numbers are at 1800 caribou for the Bluenose Herd, and that’s pretty low. A lot of caribou was killed by big game hunters in the past two years. It’s a great privilege to be at this workshop. When we get back home, we’ll spread the story about what’s going on.

Youth Recognize Importance of Respecting Caribou

We need to do something now, or there will not going to be much caribou left. As youth, we are the future for the North, and we are the ones that’s gotta know what to do if this comes up again in the future. In my community a lot of people rely on caribou meat, geese and fish."

Isaac Lennie, Inuvik

"I learnt about how low the numbers for caribou are, across North America. There are a lot of people, elders and youth, who rely on having caribou for food. I’ve been out a few times to hunt caribou, but I did not see anything. So I hunted moose instead. There’s nothing that compares to caribou, but if they set a limit on hunting, I hope people will respect it, and not kill more than they are supposed to. If they do exceed the limits, they are not respecting the animals. The numbers might start going up if we obey the limits for a period, and we will be able hunt again. Let’s obey the rules."

Left: Chris Semple (Aklavik), Kayla Kudlak (Paulatuk), Vincent Alonak (Ulukhaktok), Isaac Lennie (Inuvik), Shawn Norbert (Tsiigehtchic), Edward McLeod (Aklavik) attended the youth component of the Caribou Impacts Workshop.

Bottom: (L) Kayla Kudlak and (R) Isaac Lennie shared their thoughts with a CBC reporter.

ICC Sewing Class - Having Fun Indoors!

The winter cold keeps us indoors, but for some, it is a great oppourtunity to gather and learn new skills. The ICC Sewing class is full! This class is held every Monday and Wednesday evening, from the beginning of winter to the end of March. Lillian Elias, Brian Rogers, Alice Hunter, and Mary Inutalik are the instructors, and the atmosphere in the room is jovial. There are as many jokes as there is advice on the proper construction of traditional clothing.

Katherine Ciboci, program coordinator for ICC said,“ This program has been going on for about six years. It’s an important course because we want to keep our tradition dress alive, and to teach our young people to sew. I enjoy it a lot. I learn from our instructors, who are mostly elders, and I also teach the younger girls how to make simple things. Every year we try to have different participants so everyone gets to try it out. This is also the first year we allow children and grandchildren to come. That makes it a little more challenging, but it’s fun. The best part is the laughing and socializing.”

Shiane Carpenter is a child participant. “I am making a Christmas stocking!” she said excitedly, as she showed us her handiwork. “I am learning to sew, it’s fun. I made mitts

last week! It’s not that hard!” She also said she liked learning from the elders, who also taught them some Inuvialuktun vocabulary. “I know haluhik means sissors!”, said Leslie Allen.

Alice Hunter, an instructor, is pleased to teach. “This is the first year I am teaching young people. I believe it’s important for them to learn to sew, because once the elders are gone, there will be nobody to show them the techniques,” she said. “Sometimes the students have to take their sewing apart (when they make mistakes), but they are pretty good about it. When my mum used to make me take apart my sewing, I used to cry. But that’s the only way to learn. I really enjoy my evenings with the young people. Sometimes they surprise me, they know things that I don’t know, and we teach each other.”

This course is also a good place to develop patience.

Patricia Rogers said, “I am very happy I came to this class. I learnt to make basic clothing for travelling, and skills from my culture that I can pass on. I am learning how to make a mother hubbard cover for my daughter right now, and it’s only my 5th class!”

Mary Inutalik and Patricia Rogers share a hilarious moment.

Lillian Elias, one of the instructors, and her granddaughter Kristin.

Esther Price teaching the children’s class to make handbags out of felt.

Patricia Rogers

Alice Hunter and Sue Pfeffer laughing as they sew.

Mary Inutalik and Katherine Ciboci making moccasins.

An Overview of the Inuvik Community Corporation

Chairperson: Duane Smith

Vice Chair: Gayle Gruben

Secretary Treasurer: Lucy Kuptana

Board of Directors:

Hank Rogers

Roy Ipana

Edgar Maring

Veronica McLeod

Corporate Manager: Esther Price

Program Manager: Katherine Ciboci (funded by Brighter Futures)

Office Assistant: Shawna Kaglik

Community Development Person (for Self-government): Mary Inutalik

Esther Price is the corporate manager of the ICC since January 2006. “I am really starting to enjoy it,” she said. “My main responsibility is to assist the beneficiaries, whether it be a small or larger matter. We help elders fill out applications or wills, assist beneficiaries with their education and direct them if they need further help. The ICC has a very large membership. If someone comes in from the other communities, we will try our best to help them as well.” Esther gave an overview of what the ICC is all about!

ICC’s Mandate: Our mandate is to assist the membership, to receive money and distribute it through our programs, to turn in criteria for our membership. We also establish the Hunters and Trappers committee through our bylaws. We do not govern them, but we work together closely.

Membership: Members have to be over eighteen years of age, officially enrolled as an Inuvialuit beneficiary, and a resident of Inuvik for six months.

ICC Structure: “The Chair position for ICC is voted in once every three years, and the directors’ positions, once every two years. This year we have nine people running to be directors, and three of the positions are up. It’s rotated so there is a balance in the board, next time there will be four seats up. Our election date was Dec 13th. We have 900 people on our membership list, 664 people showed up. Members have to come to ICC to do the voting.”

“Duane is acclaimed as the chair of ICC again. He is very knowledgeable about harvesting ,economics and the international representation of Inuit. He has been involved in the community for a long time. He works with us for about two and a half weeks every month, and we maintain effective communication with him through phone and email the rest of the time.”

How ICC works for you: “Our doors are always open, we’re here from 8:30 am to 5:00pm. Members can come in whenever they want; or they can call or email us. Concerns that are brought to us are taken up at our board meetings, and then they go to the IRC board meeting for further discussion. Decisions that are made are relayed to the members through us. The six board members of ICC govern Duane Smith, our chairperson, and in turn Duane governs the office staff. We meet every second Tuesday monthly, to go over correspondence, work on the accepting of memberships, and the Board directs us with

tasks to be done.”

“The minutes of our meetings are posted in the office, and beneficiaries are welcome to come view them. I think we should share our minutes with the other community corps, so we can all communicate and make sure that we are running the same programs and using the same funding opportunities. The Chairs of all the community corps meet once every few months, but corporate managers meet when the funds are available. In a corporate manager’s meeting last month, it was brought up that we should have teleconferences regularly to keep all the communities in sync.”

“It’s up to our members how they choose to communicate their issues, but if they bring it to the ICC first, their concerns will be made aware to a lot more people. At least we will be aware of it in this office and at our board. Usually I try to find a solution for the member myself first, and then I bring in Duane, and Duane might then bring it to the IRC level if it requires more help. If someone brought their requests directly to Nellie, she might not have enough time to deal with all the individual requests.”

“Katherine Ciboci is in charge of coordinating programs at the ICC, while Mary Inutalik’s mandate is to get the self-government procedures going. We are starting from scratch.”

How the ICC works with other organizations : Gayle Gruben has a seat in the town council that represents the Inuvialuit. She attends the meetings for us. Board members are also appointed to other management boards to represent our voice in areas that concern our membership.

Programs: “One of our priorities is the continuation of our culture. We would like to do two language programs, one in town and one on the land, and compare the results. We also have a sewing class two nights a week. We support arctic sports, and on the land programs. We fund the SAMS (elementary school) drum dancing, and we also contribute to the family events at the muskrat jamboree. We provide kindergarten/ daycare snacks and kindergarten screening. We have programs for on the land skills and trapper training. There was an ice-freeze up camp this year. We had participants go out on the land with a boat and learn what to look for in terms of testing the ice and making their way back.

We are also involved with the Building Healthy Lifestyles programs, and a big one is our SAMS breakfast program. We are hoping to get our own building, as we need more space to carry out our programs. Right now, sewing program participants have to sit on the floor, around the office furniture. We are also hoping to build a cultural camp at the 71A lands, at Reindeer Station, so we can take our students out there and take them whaling, fishing, and trapping.”

“The board approved giving Christmas hampers to our membership this year. This has been done in all the communities except Inuvik, so I am really proud to say our beneficiaries will get a Christmas hamper delivered by our staff to them this year. This is a great way for us to be in touch with our membership!”

How could I win?

What does it take to quit drinking? Elijah Allen, beloved elder from Inuvik, shares how he amassed the courage to quit, with candor and humour.

knew

II did not want to marry a drunkard, especially if I wanted to raise a family. Mabel never drank. When I met her, I knew she wasn’t afraid of anything. The smartest thing she did was to get her own bank account. For sixteen years, at least $7,000 of my annual income went to booze. When I went to rubby dubs to buy cases of liquor, Mabel would take the money out of our joint account. She left me just enough to buy a good headache. I didn’t get mad at her. I could still eat well, and I knew I was wrong. I was too proud to admit it though.

I had my first drink when I was twenty. I knew people who started drinking when they were fifteen or sixteen, and I didn’t care for it then. I liked dancing more. When I started working, I began to drink. At first just a little. I was with other people who were drinking. I just wanted to be part of it, to be like a man. The first drink didn’t taste good. I was told to have a second drink. It was supposed to taste better. I wanted to keep up with the rest, so I did.

I worked on the railway at Hay River, but lost my job when the unions came in. I didn’t know how to read, and they wanted me to stop driving locomotives. The heavy drinking started after I came back to Inuvik.

When I drank, I was the devil. I became crazy. My children Karleen and Agnes would say, “Come on Dadddy, you could be

smarter if you just quit drinking.” When I was working, I didn’t drink. On Friday, after work, I would go to the bar for a couple of drinks and the next thing I knew, it would be ten or eleven o’clock. I would come home miserable, and start giving orders to my family. I never touched my children, but when I sobered up, I could see that I’ve affected them. My son Wayne carried the hurt for many years. It bothered me but I wouldn’t admit it. When I was sober, my children were happy to do things for me. They seemed to think if they were good I wouldn’t drink.

Mabel asked me to go to church once in a while. If I was sober, I didn’t back out. When I had a hangover, Karlene used to say, “Come on Daddy, I’ll go to Sunday school for you and read for you.” She wasn’t afraid of me and talked to me even if I was just lying there with a hangover. My mom and wife were Christians and they kept praying for me. Mabel told me she would win me out of what I was going through. My daughters helped her to pray too. Sometimes I didn’t feel too good being around them, but I hid it deep inside.

One Sunday in 1973, Mabel asked me to go to church again. Terry Buckle really could preach. He got me thinking about being born again and to receive Jesus. I called him on the followingWednesday and asked him questions for a couple of hours. Why was I like this? He said I was going down a river, and stuck in a pothole. Satan got me. I really understood that, but I fought it for another three years. I kept on drinking, but now I couldn’t forget. I knew I was wrong. I had seven children and I was still drinking. I was tired of my life.

Elijah and his dad, Allan Ookpik. Elijah was born next to this rock in Ulukhaktok!

The family: Agnes, Mabel, Elijah, Wayne, Karlene, Kathleen, Owen, and William.

Elijah at work in his younger days.

Mabel at residential school. The couple’s twins, Kathleen and Owen celebrate their third Birthday.

With Mabel praying all the time, and then Terry too, how could I win? When I became Christian, it was the biggest moment of my life. There was so much joy! In 1977, I phoned Terry and told him to come over. I told him I wanted to give my life to God. I started going to church after that. Things changed during the next two years, but not completely. I still drank, but I would go see Terry when I was sober.

Then, I took two months off to go trapping. I went with five men to Kipnik, to get away from alcohol. After two days, three of them came back to town. They said if I felt sick I should leave with them. I said no, I’ll be ok, but it didn’t turn out that way.

Only Hoppy and I were left at Kipnik, and I was sick for three days. I used to lie down and wait for my hangover to go away. But this time, it wouldn’t leave. I felt so low I could hardly breathe. When Terry used to read the Bible at my place, I heard him talk about people having visions. I saw hell.

I could hear people screaming and I was in a deep pit. I saw my seven children with their mother up in heaven. I couldn’t reach them. “This is your home, this is where you’ll be,” I heard God’s voice, plain as can be. I said to God, “If you could just touch me, and let me know I am saved, I will never touch liquor

again.” I told him I didn’t want to die with my sins. I promised to work with Mabel and become a Christian. He said, “If you do it again, I’m not taking you back.”

After four days, I told Hoppy we should go back to town. He was surprised. How did you do it? He asked me. I walked into my house at twelve o’clock. I had it figured out so I could arrive at lunchtime. I wanted to see my kids so badly. I told Mabel I had become a Christian. When I said that, the kids smiled. They were praying for me too. I came back a different man. God have given me a mission. I will go through the hardest times but God is with me. That is why I never drank again.

A year later, Hoppy became a Christian too. I bought him a Bible and he would read it to me. That made me stronger. The temptations are still there, we are all sinners. But when I look back, it’s like God is showing me, if you vomit something up, why eat it again? I would like to tell other men who were like me to pull themselves together. Do something about it. Even in my Christian life I can be hard headed, but my family can breathe better now. I even learnt to read and that makes me feel more free. When you are an alcoholic, you become the devil. Now I tell the devil to get out of the way, I don’t need him. It has been 30 years since I drank; the kids and I know that it is Mabel who held us together. We often wonder what would have happened if she did not hold us in her hands. I have put Mabel through a lot, so I look after her really well now. I have lots to apologize for; I am not so stubborn now.

William, Elijah’s son, gets married to Marlo Kasook. Mabel and Elijah attending a wedding. Cooking and eating on the land. A peaceful retirement for Elijah.

Elijah and Mabel’s wedding day (Yvonne Kisoun on left). The couple at Camp 5, with daughter Agnes. Elijah and Mabel’s wedding at Stringer Hall Chapel.

Rheanne has lost her pualuit again! "Oh no", said Anaanattiaq.

"I didn't know it was going to happen," said Rheanne. "Uqtoktongna to make a snowman."

"Let's make mitts together, so you know how ayoknaktok it is to make them," said Anaanattiaq.

First Anaanattiaq had to cut out eliktigot shaped like Rheanne's hands. They traced the patterns onto tuktukpak, and cut out the shape of the mitts.

mitkok

"I am sewing a anukuutaq on these mitts, so you'll never ever lose them," Her granny said.

"These are great, Granny! Tammiiyakka," said Rheanne.

"Quana. Now you can go pioyak with your friends!" Anaanattiaq said.

Inuvialuktun Contest!

Hi kids, write down the English meaning of the Inuvialuktun words in this story (the words highlighted in red) and mail or email it to Tusaayaksat! You can win a Tusaayaksat

fleece toque!

Add: Box 1704 Inuvik, NT, XOE OTO Canada

"Ulugianaak!" Rheanne exclaimed. "This is ayoknak!"

"Use a tikkiq," said her Anaanattiaq, it makes it easier."

Granny mikhoktok the most pinniktok naoshiak on the mitts.

A FORCE TO BE PROUD OF Inuvialuit RCMP

Merle CarpenterSergeant

Years in the force: 21

Originally from Sachs Harbour, now in Fort McPherson

Merle has had a very successful career in the RCMP. With his job, he has worked all over the ISR and Canada. He has worked from general duty in Yellowknife, to highway patrol, and was even part of the RCMP musical ride. The ride consisted of 32 members performing on horseback, touring Canada and the USA. “I was the first Inuvialuit to attend the course. I didn't expect to be chosen; I just decided to work hard and to get along with everyone.”

Merle also worked on the Nunavut project. “I traveled and met various leaders of Nunavut, convincing them to hire the RCMP as their police force.” He’s also been in the RCMP plain-clothes unit, investigating serious crimes.

“We have a really big recruiting drive all over Canada. If you have good work ethics, and a desire to help people, I encourage you to talk to anyone on the force about joining the RCMP. Or give me a call. I’ll definitely give you a positive spin on it!”

- Merle Carpenter, Sergeant

Dino Norris Corporal

Years in the force: 18

From Inuvik

Merle is now a sergeant in Fort McPherson after working in Fort Liard and Inuvik. He has even obtained his commercial pilot’s license with the help of the IRC.

“Satisfaction comes from knowing you've done the best job that you can. We're public servants and I enjoy serving the communities I've met.”

Dino has been a police member since he was twenty. He’s worked in Inuvik and Yellowknife for about 9 years. He was also once part of the RCMP musical ride.

“It gave me a different outlook on what policing is all about. Normally we deal with negative situations, and it was nice to have people waving at us with all their fingers, not just one.”

He has worked in Vancouver as a recruiting officer on Native Reserves, and was a supervisor in Yellowknife before moving over to criminal operations. He had his first detachment command at Lutselk’e. This organization is so huge, there are over 750 detachments in Canada alone, and there are definitely opportunities to move around and see what Canada has to offer.

Dino counts meeting the Dixie Chicks and Faith Hill at the RCMP stampede as one of the perks of his job. Being a member has honed his communications skills and allowed him to listen to elders who tell him, “ If y ou find something you love to do, you'll never work a day in your life.”

Colin Allen

Constable

Years in the force: 7

Originally from Inuvik, now in Hay River

My cousin Gerry Kisoun inspired me to become a regular member. It’s an interesting job, no two days are the same. I didn’t qualify at the entrance exam the first time, but the ACDP (Aboriginal Cadet Development Program) became available in 96’. It advanced my academic skills so I could pass the entrance exam.

The greatest part of my job is when I know I am helping someone. And when the community tells me that it makes them proud to see an aboriginal member.

I’ll like to shout out to young people: Finish school, stay away from drugs!

Noella CockneyConstable

Years in the force: 11

Originally from Tuktoyaktuk, now in Inuvik

“I used to break up the fights in school. My dad was a special constable, and he's not much bigger than I am,” Noella said. “I knew I had to be strong, and keeping my dad in mind, I got out of abusive situations and became strong so I could be a RCMP member.”

“The best part of the job is the knowledge that you are helping people. The tough part is dealing with drunken individuals, who let alcohol talk for them, but in the morning they can't believe they had called you every name in the book.”

“I went to college to be a teacher, but I have to thank my son for coming along. I found that teaching wasn't what I want to do. Now, my son can't wait to get into the RCMP,” she said. Noella has also often spoken up against domestic and family violence.

Violet Pokiak Corporal (Recruitment Officer)

Years in the force: 14

Originally from Sachs Harbour, now in Yellowknife

I’ve been posted to Iqualuit, Inuvik, Cambridge Bay, and Yellowknife. What I like the most is the mobility. You are not in an office everyday, you get to travel and meet lots of different people. When you feel that you’ve really helped somebody, the satisfaction is great.

I hope people see this and realize it is not impossible to join us. We all grew up in small places and as long as you are willing to work hard and if you really want it, anything is possible.

Does it matter what kind of physique you have?

Violet: When you first apply to the RCMP, you have to pass a physical test; men and women have to pass the same benchmark, so it does not matter if you are tall or short, male or female, as long as you pass the physical test.

What if I donʼt pass the entrance exam?

Violet: We have an RCMP access program to help the applicant find out which areas need to be strengthened. We can help these individuals upgrade to pass the entrance exam. It does take a year before an applicant can reapply, if they fail the entrance exam.

Is being an RCMP member anything like CSI: Miami or any TV drama?

Merle: Drama? You've to have a certain amount of hype to lure a viewing audience. Part of everyday policing is to collect forensic evidence from crime scenes, but I've never had anybody shoot at me.

When I was on SWAT (Emergency Response) team training, it was physically and mentally challenging. We were always repelling out of buildings, wearing 40 lb gear and waking up in the middle of the night for live exercises. It also involved meeting rigorous shooting standards.

Does being RCMP mean putting your life at stake?

Merle: The training and tools that they give you to do your job makes it a very safe job.

Colin: It all comes down to the training.

Noella: It’s always in the back of your head, and makes you more conscious. We always go to a call with a partner and that helps make it safer.

What are the challenges you face in your job?

Merle: The big misconception out there is the way you are treated. 99% of the time, we are treated really well. Sometimes, people say things they don't mean in the heat of the moment, but you learn how to not take it personally.

Dino: When you are a police officer, people are counting on you to be professional and to help grieving people do what needs to be done. I try to focus on the positive and tell young members to focus on that too. The world is always going to be full of challenges, whether you are willing to step up to the plate or not. But if this is your dream, go for it; don't let anyone else choose for you.

Member Application Requirements

- Must be a Canadian citizen.

- 19 years or older, however may begin the application process at 18.

- Be of good character.

- Proficient in either English or French.

- Have a highschool diploma or equivalent.

- Must also possess an unrestricted class 5 driver's license.

- Must meet our medical/health standards.

Corporal

Pokiak

Merle Carpenter during his earlier days in the RCMP.

ICS Annual General Meeting

The Inuvialuit Communications Society had its AGM at Ingamo Hall in Inuvik on the 29 th October 2006. It was a great opportunity to hear feedback from the community and to report on our progress. We would like to thank all who participated and made the event a success!

Left: Matilda Debastian is the winner of the ICS AGM doorprize.

Leanne Goose

23rd on National Aboriginal Top 30 Countdown

As of December 16th, 2006, Leanne Goose and her hot new single ANYWHERE is ranked at number 23! Support local music, send in your song requests to: info@ncifm.com or go to www.ncifm.com and click on Internet Cafe to vote for Leanne! Check out her website @ http://www.leannegoose.com

Paulatuk Youth Keep Drum Dancing Alive

The Paulatuk Moonlight Dancers have performed to full houses in Germany, Alaska, Greenland, and all over the ISR. This drumming and dancing group first began when its members were only about ten years old, and they were self-taught! Courtney Ruben, who is good at singing high notes, said, “Your spirit is alive when you hear the music and start dancing. My brother has just started dancing, and he’s eleven years old.”

“We do south water dancing. It means when we dance, our arms move like the waves on water. It’s funny; we realized a couple of years ago that we’ve been doing some of the movements backwards. We mirrored what we saw on tape, so when the dancers used their left hand, we would use our right,” laughed Esther Wolki.

Esther’s brother, Noland Green, was the youth who started it all almost a decade ago.

“It was winter, 1996, the Inuvik Drummers and Dancers came to Paulatuk to teach the children at school. Brian Rogers and

Shepard Norman Felix taught us. Noland later managed to find some videotapes of drummers and dancers from Aklavik, Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk, and began encouraging others to join him.

“We started in 1998 with five boys – Desmond Ruben, Frank Wolki, Shane Nakomiak, Norman Jr. Kudlak, and myself. The girls used to tease the boys about drumming and singing, and I would say, “What’s so funny about drumming and dancing? Why don’t you join us?”

A year later, Esther Wolki, Savannah Green, Tracy Wolki, Denise Wolki and Caroline Kudlak would gather with the boys at Noland’s home to practice drum dancing when their parents were out. “When we first started, we used cardboard boxes and patched up rulers for our drums. We wore regular parkas instead of dance ones. We borrowed from my mother”, said Esther.

“Noland would say, ‘Esther, watch this tape. You are supposed to dance like those women.’ Because we were young, the movements stuck in our heads easily. Then, Charlene Gruben

The Paulatuk Moonlight Dancers. Pictured here: L-R (first row) Courtney Ruben, Denise Wolki , Kristen Green, Esther Wolki, Tracy Wolki, and Debbie Gordon Ruben. L-R (2nd Row): Frank Wolki, Noland Green (lead singer), and Colton Ruben.

had a birthday party, and her mum invited us to dance. We didn’t even have a name for our group yet! Her mum helped us out with getting drums after that. My mum Merna Wolki helped us a lot with sewing our dance parkas.” Esther learnt to sew, and Noland helped to point out features of a dance parka. “Our parkas still looked different from other people’s when you get up close, but we tried to make them look like the ones we saw on other performers.”

“In 1999, Nellie Cournoyea and Peggy Jay came to Paulatuk for a celebration. Arlene, our coordinator then, asked us to dance at the celebration. From then on, we had more support through IRC for getting materials, ” Noland remembered. They got their first real drums from Barrow, Alaska.

“Debbie Gorden Ruben was the coordinator for the Inuvik Drummers and Dancers then. She heard about us and invited five of us to go to Alaska,” said Noland. Liz Kuptana, the language teacher in Paulatuk, lent them another drum and two videotapes. The Paulatuk Moonlight Dancers then traveled to Greenland and Hanover, Germany to perform at the Expo.

“Germany was the biggest thing,” said Esther. “We were really young. It felt like we were in such a big world, to have people lined up to see us, filling all corners of the room. It felt good. Tracy and I used to be really shy, we ran to hide behind the drummers as soon as our dance was over. When we perform at the Northern Games or jamborees in Inuvik or Tuktoyaktuk, everybody respects us as drum dancers and wants us to keep dancing. They are like our sister communities.”

It is challenging for the Paulatuk Moonlight dancers to travel and perform in other locales due to rising costs, “It takes at least eight dancers to put up a good show, and if you add up the travel, food and lodging costs, it costs a lot,” said Debbie.

“The people in Paulatuk are so used to watching us at local events for the past years, they leave the room sometimes

when it’s our turn to perform, and come back when the square dances start,” Esther said. Therefore, the Paulatuk Moonlight dancers went on a hiatus.

“We began practicing a few days ago, for the first time in a long time. We are teaching the young kids at school to drum dance, and at first, because I had been away at school for two years, I was mixing up the simplest songs. Noland and I decided we needed to practice more. Noland also put our singing on the radio, and we started getting calls. It was good,” said Esther.

“They’ve begun to learn the meaning of the words in the songs,” said Debbie Gordon Ruben, who is now the coordinator for the Paulatuk dancers, and has brought her knowledge with her to the group. “They used to memorize the sound of the songs.” The youth are also learning from Mary Evik, about the origins of their traditional dance dress. “It’s too hot now to make skin qasungas (parkas), and now strout is used for the shoes,” said Mary. Thankfully, the aligiat (skin gloves with decorations that accentuate dance movements) is still used.

“I feel happy that I am passing down traditional dance and song to the little kids,” said Esther.

“It still matters. Technology is moving unbelievably fast, and our traditional ways are being overshadowed. When we began dancing, we wanted to keep drum dancing alive for our grandparents. Now, we want to keep the kids positive and we know dancing will keep them out of trouble. It’s funny, but when we began dancing, Brian and Donna were teaching us in this very gym, and I felt awkward because I didn’t know what I was doing. Now, we are teaching young kids to perform for their Christmas concert!”

Top: Colton Ruben, Keith Felix, Kristen Green and Frank Wolki evoke traditional scenes with their dancing.

Esther Wolki is full of surprises. At first glance, you might guess the soft spoken girl has her ambitions are of a quiet nature. Instead, Esther is on the way to becoming an artillery soldier in the Canadian Army.

“Since I was in grade 10, I’ve wanted to join up. The recruiters from the army came up to Paulatuk every year. They gave me the papers and information to join. For the last two years, I sent in my application papers, but it was either too late or it would get lost in the mail. This year, I applied early, and they signed me up in Yellowknife. I was brought out to Victoria for training. It was so awesome.

We did so much there with the battleships and the C7s. We went all over. We practiced our drills everyday from six am to six at night. I got used to it, and to learning about mapping and navigation. I realized I want to do this for the rest of my life. After the course, we are given at least a month to get ready for the army. Once Christmas is over, I will be enrolled and the inaugration ceremony will be here! I will then go to Inuvik for a short period, to train at their gym. Then, I will head out to SaintJean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec , for thirteen weeks, for the second part of training,. That’s going to be cool. We’ve already chosen our jobs.

Being an artillery soldier is my first option, followed by combat engineer and infantry soldier. I chose this job because I know it’s very physically demanding. Even my coporals, POs and even the chiefs in Esquimeau told me so. I know it will be hard, really hard, but it’s just going to make me stronger. It’s hard to live in the NWT, and if I have this job, it will make it way better for me and my family. I won’t be coming back to the training, because I know I’ll be signing up right away.

I had to go to Inuvik because we didn’t have Grade 12 studies in Paulatuk then. I had to leave my family and my mum for two and a half years. That was hard. In Inuvik, I hardly got to meet new friends so most of the time I was alone. The school was pretty good…the teachers were awesome, and if you have a problem they’ll help you

I didn’t really get to know the kids in school. There was a lot of stereotyping when I went there. Everybody had the idea that I was a small town girl, so it was hard to fit in, but it was ok once I made a couple of friends. The academic tests were hard but we went through the excercises everyday. When the scores came in I made a 100 credits, so I pulled through! At the prom I had to wear high heels, which was so tough! Hahahha.. Social studies was my favourite. Our teacher was Mr. MaCallum. I was so excited to get homework because I could learn more and more about the world. Going to Inuvik made me halfway, at least halfway ready to go into the world.”

Canadian Aboriginal Entry Program

“This is a program for all aboriginal, metis, first nations, and Inuit youth who want to join up. Yellowknife is our recruiting place, or you could visit our website. You will be taught the basics of the military life, and what it is like to work in extreme places. I encourage as many people as possible to try it out because itʼs a really good experience. At least 60 people went this year. They made us feel so much pride to be aboriginal and Canadian, so I recommend everyone to go.” Check it out at www.recruiting.forces.ca

Paulatuk might be a small community, but they boast their very own radio station. The mayor of Paulatuk, Ray Ruben, uses this communication tool regularly. “Good afternoon, everybody. Before my council meeting, I would like to let everyone know what’s happening and in development. If there are any issues you would like me to work on, or to bring to the government, give me a call and let me know.”

The idea of having a radio station began with the former mayor, Keith Dodge and Lawrence Ruben, who was then the recreational coordiator. “We felt there wasn’t enough information going out to the public. We did have CBC North (from Inuvik) for passing messages out, but that meant too much delay. We ordered the current radio station equipment in 2003. It cost quite abit, but it’s worth it to get everybody up to date with community and out of town happenings.”

The radio station is a little white shack in the middle of town. “The HTC moved into the new visitor’s center, and was looking to donate the space to an organization. The hamlet bought this space for one dollar. It’s a lot better than tearing it down, we made good use of it,” said Lawrence.

Lawrence did try to begin a radio station in 1983, but the equipment was quickly stolen or lost. At first, Lawrence was not used to hearing his voice on radio. “For three weeks, I had to record myself and play it to hear how I sounded, to make sure I didn’t offend anyone”, he said.

“This community is mainly Inuvialuit, so when Gwich’in radio is playing at CBC North from one to three pm, it was agreeable for CBC North to let us have their airtime. We didn’t have to do any paperwork.”

“Now, people expect to hear the radio announcer everyday from one to three pm. Everyday, we would call up the committees (HTC, PCC, DEA etc) and the hamlet, so that we can make announcements about upcoming events all through the week.” In the mornings, the station also plays recordings of Yellowknife’s legislative assembly for a couple of hours. “When they were taken off APTN, the legislative assembly had to find another way to get their recordings out to the people. They reimburse the hamlet for the hours, and it helps pay for Noland’s wages.”

Lawrence is currently working in public housing, and Noland Green has been the new radio announcer for the past half a year. “It’s a pretty good job,” Noland said. “Everyday we get quite a few song requests, send out announcements to the community and play quite abit of country music. I don’t really play rock and roll or rap music on the air. I play Hank Williams Senior’s music everyday.”

“At first, the equipment looked quite complicated to me. I didn’t know which buttons to press or what to do. Lawrence taught me how to use everything.”

Lawrence will come back on the air around December. “I’ll be doing two jobs, at both Public Housing and later at the radio station.” He said with pride, “We even try to play Christmas music earlier than other stations, so we can get people in the mood right away.”

Noland Green delivering a song request.

Ray Ruben, mayor of Paulatuk, making a community news update.

Byron Okheena having a comical moment with weights.

Youth from Inuvik, Paulatuk and Tuktoyaktuk have been chosen to represent the NWT in the 2007 Canada Winter Games (CWG) at Whitehorse. It’s a truly exciting moment in northern history, the first time the CWG, which has a fortyyear history, is hosted in a city north of the 60 th parallel. The athletes representing the NWT are Byron Okheena, Kyle Kuptana, Karla Debastian and Peter Lennie (Inuvik), Dwayne Illisiak, Marion Green and Kristen Green (Paulatuk), as well as Craig Gruben and Jerine Kotokak (Tuktoyaktuk). All the athletes will be demonstrating and competing in Inuit sports, except Peter Lennie, who will compete in Dene Games.

The excitement of the athletes and their coaches is palpable. Athletes in Inuvik have been training six days a week, to get their cardiovascular systems healthy and their endurance levels up. “This gives our athletes a chance to compete at a higher level than they’ve ever had before,” said Julian Tomlinson, one of the coaches. “We’ve created a three-step program to get them physically and mentally ready to shine.”

Donald Kuptana, coach and organizer of the NWT Team, was very pleased at the second physical assessment of the athletes. “It’s been about six weeks since we began training, and we are seeing excellent results. The athletes are really lean now, and I can see Kyle and Byron coming close to breaking world records.”

“I’ve lost fourteen pounds, and recently gained two pounds back, hopefully in muscle,” said Byron Okheena. When we first met him, he had set goals to keep fit, quit smoking and beat his own records. Six weeks later, he is down to four smokes a day, and doing 7% better in his cardiovascular training. “My heart feels better,” he said, “I am continuing to work on quitting smoking, and I hope to get my core strength and leg strength up with the next phase of training. I’ve been working out with my friends, CJ and Andrew Joss, and they notice that I am more hyperactive in class, instead of being tired and sleepy. My focused has definitely improved.”

Karla and Kyle giving their best shot at their 2nd physical assessment.

Next Page, Bottom: Karla on the treadmill, and Byron trying to break his record for sit-ups.

It is not easy to commit

to training six days a week, but so far, Kyle, Byron and Karla have been doing an excellent job.

Julian Tomlinson (coach) stressing the importance of proper rest.

Kristen Green practices her high kick

Kyle said, “I am committed to this. The routine is pretty intense, but I am excited. I’ve also changed my diet quite a bit. I still get cravings for junk food, but I eat healthier snacks now, like apples and milk. I’ve lost 12 pounds, and have gained 6 inches on my high kick. I am beating my personal records big time.”

The athletes also train outside of the gym. Karla is a wrestler, while Byron and Kyle play hockey. It is the first time Karla got on the team, and she is enjoying being a role model for her cousins. “It’s pretty awesome,” she said, “I was surprised to get in, but now I am committed to my training and eating less junk food.”

Athletes in Paulatuk and Tuktoyaktuk have less access to professional training equipment, but they are not letting it get them down. Marion, Dwayne and Kristen get together in the Angik School open gym at least three times a week, and took it upon themselves to practice their high kicks and knuckle hops, until Kurt Gruben recently became their coach.

“ It ’s like we’re going exploring,” said Marion, who sees going to the games with her childhood friends as an adventure. “We’ve known each other since we were babies; we are not competitive with each other. If we help each other get better at our sports, our team’s tally will go up and we’ve a better chance of winning.”

Both Marion and Dwayne are eating better, and Kristen has even quit smoking. “It took two weeks, but when I found out at the trials that smoking made my hand grip

weaker, I knew I had to do something about it,” she said.

Dwayne, who had competed in the Northern Games several times before, is calm and focused. “I expected to get in, and now I am strengthening my legs for the jumping categories with running and street hockey. I am hoping to win at least one medal.” He is also eating a lot more country food than chocolate bars.

The athletes in Tuktoyaktuk have been reported to be on track and improving their records too. “ Edgar Kudekak, Lena Kuptana and Matthew Anikina are training Craig and Jerina,” said Donald, “And I’ve heard Craig is kicking really well. On the 5th to the 7th of January 2007, we’ll have all the athletes gathered at Kitti Hall in Tuktoyaktuk so they can all train together again. We’ll do another physical assessment then, and tailor the training to try to make up for lost time with the youth from the smaller communities. We are training our athletes to do our traditional games with as little injury as possible, and to get the best results. The youth have really listened to Julian about eating better, resting well and exercising.”

On the 23rd February 2007, our athletes will be in Whitehorse, testing out their skills and reaping the fruits of their hard work. They have really embraced their responsibility and are glowing with health from their training. Janeta Pascal from Aklavik and Tanya Snowshoe from Inuvik have been selected as youth ambassadors to the CWG too. Make sure you are cheering for our youth; the games will be broadcast on APTN, CBC, and TSN!

Dwayne Illisiak high kicks!

Marion Green has been training regularly.

Dwayne knuckle hops.

The Place Where People Travel

The community of Sachs Harbour and Aulavik National Park of Canada

By Adriana Bacheschi

Whatʼs in a name?

In Inuvialuktun, Aulavik means “place where people travel”. The name speaks for the thousands of years when aboriginal peoples (from Pre-Dorset cultures to present Inuvialuit) traveled along the Thomsen River valley, where wildlife and land supported them. It is also connected to the history of the Northwest Passage explorers, who navigated the arctic and got stuck in Mercy Bay; the ship was later salvaged by the people of Banks Island.

The name for Aulavik, like the history of Banks Island, is old. Aulavik National Park, on the other hand, is new. In 1992, Parks Canada, the Inuvialuit and the community of Sachs Harbour, together, created the park. Now, it protects thousands of kilometres of arctic tundra on the north end of Banks Island. Aulavik is home to both the Peary caribou and the highest concentration of Muskox in the world!

History and people change, but some connections can remain strong. Today the community of Sachs Harbour cooperatively manages the park with Parks Canada, ensuring that the name Aulavik continues to make sense for future generations. Here are some of the stories of the people who go to “Aulavik”!

David Haogak is a descendent of the Innuinnait or Copper Inuit from the Banks and Victoria islands area. David grew up in Sachs Harbour where he first worked for Parks Canada as a seasonal park patrol person for 5 years. He later left Sachs Harbour to finish his studies in Inuvik. After completing the natural resources technology program at the Aurora College, David became a natural resources officer for the Northwest Territories Government for three years. He returned to Sachs Harbour and to Parks Canada in 2004, and became the site manager of Aulavik National Park.

David explains that he loves his work with Parks. “You can’t beat it. You go out in the field, meet interesting people from all over the world, learn from different scientists and feel that you are part of a team. (…)When the first people here discussed the creation of the park, they wanted community members, people from Sachs, to work for Aulavik National Park. I feel very proud and grateful to be in this position, that was negotiated by our people, for me.”

Sachs Harbour is David’s home. “It is good to be in Sachs. I am from here, I know how to live here. Why work anywhere else? I can’t run away. I need to teach my children who I am. I am an Inuvialuit from Sachs Harbour.”

Talking about the park and Sachs Harbour is not the only thing that brings out a spark in David’s voice. David also insists on the importance of listening to elders. Their stories teach understanding of the land, the people and their history. Anyone who has a chance to meet David will be glad that he listened, and now shares what he learned. “Over time we have seen a lot of change. Contact with European explorers, whalers, traders, and missionaries brought a wage economy, new government, laws, and a different education system. We now benefit from the technological advances that made life here a bit easier, but also made us less active in keeping with our own language and traditions. With the Inuvialuit Final Agreement we have taken charge of our own lives, and have the chance to determine our own future. Here in our community where a whole lot has changed, we don’t consider this land an unforgiving place, but a providing and opportune place.”

In David’s words, the knowledge of his land and his people will certainly carry on.

David Haogak – Aulavik National Park Site Manager

Photo by Wayne Lynch

Photo by Danielle Drummond

Dave Haogak in Aulavik National Park

Thomsen River Canoe trip

Every year, Parks Canada employees go on a canoe trip down the Thomsen River for monitoring purposes. Staff spend ten days in the park monitoring visitor use of the river, cultural resources and various others aspects of the local environment, such as water quality or birds.

Aleta Esau, who works at the Parks Canada office in Sachs Harbour as Operations Clerk and Heritage Presentation Officer, had a chance to paddle the Thomsen River for the first time this year.

For Aleta, who had camped in the park only once before on a school trip, this was a great experience. “The trip was excellent. It was so good to be with people like Joe Kudlak, who knows the river so well. The best part of the trip was having the opportunity to see all the archaeological sites along the river, as well as learning about the plants in the park”

Now she feels that she can truly inform potential visitors to the park of what it means to paddle the Thomsen River.

Park Community Trip 2006

In the summer of 2006 a community camp for residents of Sachs Harbour was held by Parks Canada. In other years, youth camps have been held for students from Sachs Harbour. A group of eight community members had a chance to go to the park and get to know it for a few days. They camped in the park and spent their days fishing and hiking around the area. The group was weathered in for a couple nights, but everyone made the most of the experience.

The Aulavik National Park Advisory Board works with Parks Canada to manage Aulavik National Park. This year the members of the board include the following Sachs Harbour residents:

Martha Kudlak - Elders Committee

Lucy Kudlak - Alternate for Robert Eldridge Sachs Harbour Hamlet

Roger Kuptana - Sachs Harbour Hunters and Trappers Committee

Betty Haogak - Sachs Harbour Community Corporation

Aleta Esau at Thomsen River.

Photo by Seth Oldman

Photos by Danielle Drummond

Warren Esau, Glenda Carpenter and Charlton Haogak fishing.

Muskox are always seen by visitors to Aulavik.

James McCormick photos.

Let’s playact in Inuvialuktun!

Mrs. Ipana’s

Inuvialuktun class is so fun! The teacher playacts so her students can learn to converse in the language.

“Let’s pretend I ran into Nanuck Emma at the Northern Store, ok?”

“Yes!!”

The students respond enthusiastically.

“Ah! Emma, Qanuq i t pit?” (Emma, How are you?)

“Nakuurunga, ilvinmi?” (I am fine, what about you?)

“Nakuurunga, quyannani!” (I am fine too, thank you!)

“Do you know what it means?” A room of eager nods and small hands waving, shouting out answers.

“Do you want to see us do it again?”

“YES!!”

This teaching method is very effective. “It is really important to have an elder in our classro o m to speak with me in Inuvialuktun, so I am not just speaking at the kids. I wanted them to see that Inuvialuktun is a living language that two people can have fun conversations in. It’s great to have Emma here. Some of these kids don’t have any nanucks, and now they have an elder they can connect with. They call her nanuck Emma. I thought it’s a great finishing touch to our program. The children are also learning how to look after her, and how to respect her knowledge about the land. It’s great to have Emma, or any elder, come here. They are an asset to teaching our children our language,” said Sandra Ipana, the teacher.

“We’ve taught them how to sing ' O Canada' in Inuvialuktun, and to say grace before their snack time in Inuvialuktun too,” said Emma, who before her retirement , had been a teacher’s assistant at SAMS School for nine years. Through Sandra and Emma, the children are now able to have simple conversations about the weather!

Emma Dick (L) and Sandra Ipana (R) teach the grade 5 Inuvialuktun Class. In this picture: Kaleigh Joy Greenland, Markayla, Courtney Gordon Reinus, Delma Reinus, Delaney Arey, Eric Kudlak, Kayleigh Joy Greenland, Clyde Elanik, Everette Elanik, and Helena Courtney Goose.

Election Results for ISR Community Corporations

On election day in Inuvik, Esther Price fills out Christmas cards to beneficiaries; Butch Kasook votes; ICC staff help elder Sandy Stefansson with his elder’s dividend.

Inuvik Crafts Fair

This picture gives you an idea of the popularity of the Christmas Crafts Fair held in Inuvik. Artists from all over the ISR showed up to sell their crafts. MaryAnn Taylor from Tuktoyaktuk had some unique Christmas Inuvialuit dolls, Maggie Day sold beautiful mukluks, Margaret Kanayok sold prints and work from artists in Ulukhaktok, as did Mary Okheena. Esther Wolki sold hair decorations and moccasins, and helped artists in Paulatuk sell their wares at her table too. Prices were admittedly higher this year, and Edith Hoagak’s work was almost completely sold by the first night! We all had fun chatting at the tables, while finding the perfect gift for friends and family!

Maggie Day (elder) enjoyed robust business at the Crafts Fair. Many stopped by to say hi and look at her christmas ornaments!

Lena, Sarah and Edith from Sachs Harbour reunite in Inuvik!

Margaret Kanayok from Ulukhaktok.

MaryAnn Taylor from Tuktoyaktuk.

Esther Wolki (R) and her friend catches up at the Crafts F air.

Maggie Day shows us her moccasins.

Eddie

Amagonalok is the Program Coordinator for the Inuvik Men’s Program, and the location of his office is both a blessing and deterrent to the people he wants to help.

Healing Under One Roof In

“Ihope we get more instructors in to teach.

“Some people feel afraid or ashamed to come here because my office is in a homeless shelter, and because there are other people around. I want them to know that the shelter is a place where they can feel comfortable. It’s for them. I care and I want to keep this open. Even if they want to just come by for coffee, and see what it’s all about, I have an open door policy,” he said.

Inuvik Men’s Program

TheInuvik Men’s Shelter is more than a physical sanctuary from the winter cold. Eddie, working for the IRC under AHF funding, is determined to help people conquer addictions and to help them start healing. He has had eighteen years of experience in addictions counseling, childcare and corrections for young offenders. “I work in this field because when I was in difficult times, somebody cared enough to help me through. I went to residential school and because of what happened there, I got heavily into alcohol and drugs. Somebody believed I deserved a second chance, so I want to do that for others,” he said.

The mandate of his program is to work with people who went through the residential system. Eddie provides private counseling services, group therapy, as well as creates workshops that allow participants to learn skills and socialize. “When somebody is working with their hands, their minds are put at ease. Instead of being out on the street, people can come here to concentrate on learning to sew, on making ulus, doing basic carving and painting. When working with your hands with start talking with the people around you, that’s when you start healing, especially because many of our participants went through the same difficulty,” he said. Some participants have made crafts such as mitts and ulus, and sold them to the IRC

Sometimes we get a good samaritan who just comes in and volunteers. If I’ve to extend the program’s hours to get more volunteers and participants in, that’s what I’ll do.”

for counseling, Eddie said, “When anyone comes to me, we sign a form of confidentiality. Everything that is said stays between me and the client.” He gets referrals from social service agencies, and also welcomes people who walk in. “Be here for yourself,” he said. “There’s nothing bad about getting help. And if you want help, you can come here. Sometimes people feel ashamed about needing help, but I remind them that we give a lot of support to those who want to work through issues. Shame is one of the things we will work through. Even in a group therapy setting, there is no judging of each other.”

“Ifeel it’s important to have a program like this in Inuvik. There are a lot of addictions going on, and a lot of people want to quit, but don’t have the avenue. Some of them need a push, but not too hard of a push,” he smiled. “I’ve been there and I’ll like to see others start healing from their experience too.”

Eddie can be reached at the Turning Point, at 867 777 5290.

Top (L-R): 1-2: Participants of the Inuvik Men’s Program sewing class, 3: Peter, a participant, learning how to perpare fur for mitts from Ruth Wright. Peter has now found employment as a security guard, and said he is thankful to the Men’s Home and the sewing program for helping him attain the skills he needed. 4: Eddie Amagonalok, Program Co-ordinator, 5: Ada, a participant, teaching Tusaayaksat editor the tricks to pleating fleece.