Inuit leaders are calling on the Canadian federal government to address a significant infrastructure gap between Canada’s North and Greenland, particularly as Ottawa prepares to invest heavily in Arctic security. A recent delegation trip to Greenland highlighted the advancements made there, leading Inuit leaders to emphasize the need for similar development in Canada’s Inuit Nunangat.
Infrastructure Disparities
Paul Irngaut, president of Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated (NTI), stated, “They’re way ahead of us.” He added that Inuit communities are often an afterthought for the government, a sentiment voiced following a trip to Nuuk for the opening of the Canadian Consulate, undertaken in solidarity against potential U.S. Intervention. The delegation noted significant modernization in Greenland’s capital city over the past decade.
The disparities extend beyond urban centers. While all communities in Inuit Nunangat rely on diesel power except for Inukjuak, Quebec, which is transitioning to hydroelectricity, the majority of communities in Greenland already utilize hydro power. Nuuk’s deepwater port offers greater capacity for cargo transport compared to the one in Iqaluit, which faces challenges with seasonal ice.
Education and Language
Beyond infrastructure, differences exist in educational approaches. Greenland’s post-secondary institutions use Kalaallisut, the language of Greenlandic Inuit, as the primary language of instruction. In contrast, Inuktitut is not the primary language of instruction for most Inuit students within Canada.
Natan Obed, president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK), expressed hope that the Canadian government will focus on the “functioning and sustainability of our communities” alongside military considerations.
A New University for Inuit Nunangat
ITK recently selected Arviat, Nunavut, as the future site for a new Inuit-led university. Still, Inuit leaders are awaiting federal funding commitments and legislation to enable the university to operate across multiple jurisdictions – Nunavut, the Northwest Territories, northern Quebec, and Labrador. Young people from Arviat, like Tyson and Chelsea Prusky, expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to pursue higher education closer to home, potentially beginning in 2030.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Inuit Nunangat?
Inuit Nunangat is the homeland of the Inuit in Canada, encompassing four regions: Nunavut, Nunavik (northern Quebec), Nunatsiavut (northern Labrador), and the Inuvialuit Settlement Region (Northwest Territories).
What is the current state of infrastructure in Inuit Nunangat?
Infrastructure in Inuit Nunangat lags behind that of Greenland, with most communities relying on diesel power and facing challenges with seasonal ice at the region’s only deepwater port in Iqaluit.
What is ITK’s role in the proposed university?
Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) selected Arviat, Nunavut, as the location for the main campus of a new Inuit-led university and is awaiting federal funding and legislation to support its establishment.
As Canada increases its focus on the Arctic, will these calls for investment in social infrastructure and cultural preservation be heeded alongside plans for military buildup?
