Iqalungmiut celebrate language week

SARA ARNATSIAQ

In previous years, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. has provided funds for feasts, games and activities to mark language week. This year, the organization has put its funds toward a commercial promoting the Inuktitut language.

The commercial, produced in partnership with Inuit Communications Systems Ltd., will air on APTN during language week – April 27 to May 3.

The Nunavut department of culture, language, elders and youth will hold a Nunavut-wide poster contest for students in elementary school, junior high and high school.

Anthony Saez, the assistant deputy minister for CLEY, said the department feels that it is with the young people that the Inuit language and culture will survive. The department wants to see how they view their own language and culture.

Winners in each of the three categories will be announced at the end of May, and posters will be distributed throughout Nunavut.

The Iqaluit station of Inuit Broadcasting Corp. planned to hold a live phone-in show on the Official Languages Act on April 29. But by late last week, Paul Quassa, the executive producer of Qaggiq, did not have a lineup of guests.

The social development wing of the Qikiqtani Inuit Association planned language celebrations at Inuksuk High School from April 30 until May 2.

Each day was to have two different themes. On Wednesday it was traditional clothing and the land claims agreement. Thursday’s themes were carving and printmaking. Friday morning was to focus on hunting, followed by a feast.

There was to be a tent for traditional knowledge, with exhibits on clothing and food.

Organizers had lined up special guests, including carvers, printmakers and hunters.

John McDougall, QIA’s executive director, said that this year’s celebrations are meant to show that language is at the heart of Inuit culture.

This is QIA’s first year hosting language week activities.