Uqausirmut Quviasutiqarniq 2019: Inngiusiit Innginnguarusiillu

News Release

Uqausirmut Quviasutiqarniq 2019: Inngiusiit Innginnguarusiillu

IQALUIT, Nunavut (January 31, 2019) – February is Uqausirmut Quviasuutiqarniq – Inuktut Language Month. This year’s theme is Inngiusiit Innginnguarusiillu: Traditional Songs and Chants. Nunavut’s month-long celebration of Inuktut also coincides with the United Nations International Year of Indigenous Languages.

“Nunavut is a leader on the national and world stages in protecting an Indigenous language,” said Minister of Languages David Joanasie. “Having our languages safeguarded in legislation helps our government protect and promote the quality and use of Inuktut in innovative ways throughout the territory.”

Inngiusiit Innginnguarusiillu were traditionally used by generations of Inuit parents to teach their children about Inuit culture, traditions and language. These songs and chants often include sophisticated terminology in Inuktut, encouraging children to learn and strengthening the use of Inuktut at home and in the community.

To help preserve this tradition, the Department of Culture and Heritage recorded several dozen songs and chants performed by Elders and educators. At the end of February, there will be a special showcase in Iqaluit, and the songs and chants will be released on DVDs, CDs and print. A package was distributed early this year to all communities, including schools, daycares and libraries, providing resources to learn Inuktut during Uqausirmut Quviasuutiqarniq.

Atii! Taki Inuktuuqta! Let’s all speak Inuktut, and celebrate this important part of our Inuit culture with our families, friends, Elders, students, teachers and co-workers. For more information, please visit www.ch.gov.nu.

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Media Contact:

Elizabeth A. Roberts
Communication Officer
Department of Culture and Heritage
867-975-5543
@email