Discover Nunavik The People and Culture of Nunavik

The People and Culture of Nunavik

Prior to the arrival of Europeans, Inuit lived a nomadic, subsistence lifestyle in an extremely harsh environment. They traditionally lived in small bands of a few families who followed a seasonal pattern of hunting, fishing and gathering.

In only a few generations Inuit have experienced dramatic changes in lifestyle. Social and political infrastructures, western technology, and a capitalist economy all represent quite massive alterations to Inuit culture. Despite such significant influencing elements, Inuit continue to hold a unique cultural identity that is sustained by a shared language, shared history, a strong sense of community; and, a vital relationship with the land.

The predominant religion in Nunavik is Anglican; Pentecostal and other dominations are also present. Family ties, and the Inuit tradition of community values, are important influences in this regard.

The language spoken by Nunavik Inuit is “Inuktitut”. Reflecting the pattern of migration and settlement of 4,000 years ago, this language is shared by Inuit groups across the arctic from Alaska to Greenland. Although there are regional variations in dialect, the linguistic structure remains the same throughout.

Today, more than 85% of Inuit in Nunavik retain Inuktitut as their mother tongue.

Source: Tagralik Partridge, Avataq