Facts That You Should Know About Nunavut Culture
Nunavut is the newest and northernmost territory of Canada and it was separated from Northwest Territories in 1999. Inuit people, who live in harsh environment conditions, still keep their rich culture alive in 21.st century. We’ve compiled 8 things that you should know about this amazing territory and Nunavut culture:
1. Inuktitut and Inuinnaqtun
There are two different Inuit languages in Nunavut territory. One is Inuktitut which is Eastern Canadian Inuit language, and the other one is Inuinnaqtun. These are the official languages and Inuit people can benefit from the government services in these languages. English and French are the two other official languages in Nunavut territory. The word “Nunavut” means “our land” in Inuktitut language and the word Inuit means “people”. Body language is also a very important part of Nunavut culture. Many notions are expressed with gestures rather than words.
2. Only 31.906 people in an area at the size of Europe
Nunavut territory covers an area at the size of Western Europe. In this large area near north pole, only 31.906 people live. On the other hand, caribou population in the region is 300.000 people. Biggest town of the territory is Iqaluit.
3. Living traditions
Oral literature is one of the strongest traditions of Nunavut culture. Inuit women are the protectors of the culture. Resistance for surviving, respect to family and nature are most important values of Nunavut culture. Inuit life is based on exploiting nature for survival but not underrating it. Honoring the nature is important. Animals are appreciated and hunting is based on certain rituals.
4. Away from crazy crowds
Nunavut is the only territory of Canada which is not connected to rest of North America by a motorway. Closest neighbor of the territory is Greenland.
5. Polar animals everywhere!
You can see tundra swans, musk ox, walrus and polar bears in amazing Nunavut territory. Also the biggest caribou population of the world is here.
6. A trip in tundra with dog sled
You can tour the tundra with dog sleds in Nunavut and then accommodate in an igloo. Dogs that pull the sleds are named “qimmiit”. Dog sled races are important events in the territory. Don’t forget to dress warmly while sledging.
7. A culture full of artistic creativity
Inuit people have an intense artistic creativity. Viewing Inuit art, handicrafts and garments are a perfect way of recognizing Inuit culture. Artistic features of Nunavut culture influence visitors deeply.
8. Garments
Struggling to survive in harsh environment conditions made Inuit people creative about clothing. Leather and fur are used widely in garments. Boots, leggings, baby and child clothes are some of the important clothing. Most of the Inuit clothes are hand crafted even in 21st century.
