Embrace Life Council hosts birthday party Wednesday

The Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit Embrace Life Council is calling on Nunavummiut to join in the celebration of its 20th anniversary in Iqaluit and Rankin Inlet on Embrace Life Day on Wednesday.

“During Embrace Life Day — it’s also known as World Suicide Prevention Day — our organization believes that it’s important for people to come together so that we can support each other and show we are there and show people that they are not alone,” said Tooma Laisa, a spokesperson for the council.

Iqaluit residents march through the community as part of the Isaksimagit Inuusirmi Katujjiqatigiit Embrace Life Council’s annual Embrace Life Day walk in 2023. The banner, created by staff and local children in 2022, will lead the march again this year. (Photo courtesy of Tooma Laisa)

“It’s also a time to encourage people to celebrate life and promote life rather than to mainly focus on the hard and heavy times.”

A walk through in Rankin Inlet is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. in front of the hamlet office, followed by refreshments.

In Iqaluit, residents are invited to gather at 4 p.m. at the Four Corners intersection for a walk through downtown. A feast and games will follow at 6 p.m. at Inuksuk High School.

Prizes, including Canadian North tickets, will be awarded at events in both communities.

The feast promises a birthday party vibe, Laisa said.

The council’s Rankin Inlet office hosted its birthday celebration in the form of a square dance in the community hall Monday evening.

“We have been running and planning events and activities for the community of Rankin for our Embrace Life Week,” said Cassandra Saumik, program co-ordinator from the council’s Rankin Inlet office.

Other hamlets may be organizing local events in their communities, Laisa said.

Last year was the organization’s official 20th anniversary, but a staff shortage led the council board to push the celebration ahead by one year, Laisa said.