Letter from the Manager

Aar̂igaa! I am excited for this issue of our magazine because of the stories told within it! We break into some scary and creepy tales, which are right up my alley!

This issue of Tusaayaksat continues to celebrate the accomplishments of our people as they venture through life. We see young people striving to be the best – being role models in their communities and taking advantage of learning opportunities all over the world.

We hear from Elders who are passing on their years of knowledge to a new audience in our pages, reaching all across the country, and sharing their stories and experiences to help a new generation.

There are storytellers all over our region – people who have a gift for sharing a bit of their lives and in this issue we delve into the stories that have been passed on by the Inuvialuit for generations. Legends and lore about the ‘little people’, the ‘hoofed lady’ and more regional tales are all reasons that I am excited to be here.

Traditional tales with a modern twist make me feel warm in my heart. I feel like there is a strong future in our people, with those who tell these stories. I recently had a conversation with a friend about why I make short films and tell stories. I do it because I love those emotions – the way someone’s face lights up when they smile and laugh, or the very visible tension you can get from a good scare.

Whatever your reasoning is for telling stories, please continue to share your experiences with others, whenever you can. It not only helps you gain skills in public speaking, it can also open doors to people you already know. Maybe your friend has a similar story about the same topic but was too shy to say anything before.

It’s amazing what you can learn from those around you when you listen to what they have to say. I find that so many people are just waiting for their time to talk, and not really taking in everything they hear.

When I say our words have power, I mean it. The way we act upon others can directly afect their lives, especially in such a small place like our community and in our region. Gossip and rumours are more dangerous than ever, with bullying and lateral violence seen in all corners of our region.

We need to recognize this power and teach others to use it accordingly. If we all helped each other with our individual struggles, we might see that we have more in common than we thought. Our lives shouldn’t be ‘me versus you,’ or ‘us versus them.’ Life is hard enough on everyone and I personally want to see more being done on the ground level to help each other get through another day in peace and joy.

I’ve been frustrated with a lot lately, but I have people to talk to about it. I see a counsellor and we share perspectives, which really helps me in my journey. I hope you all have the same results, no matter how you get there. We all need help. Just ask.

I’m going to be me, so you be you, too.

Dez Loreen