Promotion of Inuktut / Uqausirmut Quviasutiqarniq (celebration of language) - Tocassie Burke

What is Uqausirmut Quviasuutiqarniq?

Uqausirmut Quviasuutiqarniq is Nunavut’s annual celebration of Inuktut and Inuit culture. Uqausirmut Quviasuutiqarniq takes place for the month of february. Nunavut’s month-long celebration of Inuktut also coincides with the United Nations International Year of Indigenous Languages. Uqausirmut Quviasuutiqarniq means “celebration of our language.” The purpose of Uqausirmut Quviasuutiqarniq is to promote and strengthen the use of Inuktut in all areas of our lives. Many groups participate across Nunavut, including schools, day cares, libraries, work places, and community groups. This year’s Uqausirmut Quviasuutiqarniq theme was “Inngiusiit Innginnguarusiillu” (“Traditional Songs and Chants”). Inngiusiit Innginnguarusiillu have been traditionally used by many generations of Inuit parents to teach their children about Inuit culture, ways and language. These songs and chants often include sophisticated terminology in Inuktut, making them a good tool to learn and strengthen the use of Inuktut in the home and community. Some of these are known only by a few today. The Department of Culture and Heritage recorded several dozen songs and chants performed by elders and educators, including their stories, and plan to record more throughout the year from different communities. The resources created will be distributed to schools and daycares across the territory. The promotion, preservation and protection of these traditional songs and chants strengthen our language through culture. Over the years we have done different themes, researching and creating resources for each year.