Dialogues for Promoting Indigenous Spirituality and Culture
Creating Community
Across the vast North, Inuit communities face challenges specific to remote living, while simultaneously dealing with issues common for many Indigenous Peoples.
From high levels of post-traumatic stress disorder to intergenerational trauma stemming from the 15 Collective Traumas experienced by every Inuit family, many are forced into leaving their homes and relocating south in search of a better life. However, many individuals who relocate often struggle to find cultural support systems, leading to feelings of disconnect from land, culture, language, and family, driving many into homelessness and addiction.
To fill this gap, the non-profit organization Isaruit, meaning “wings” in Inuktitut, launched its Reconciliation Through the Arts project to help individuals reconnect to their cultural identity, creativity, and community. Elders, youth, and artists will engage in hands-on cultural arts such as carving, sewing, toolmaking, beadwork, working with skins and furs, drum dancing, throat singing, traditional games, storytelling, and Inuktitut language activities. These workshops will also create opportunities for cultural exchange between Inuit and non-Inuit individuals and organizations. At its core, Isaruit’s program focuses on making space for emotional, spiritual, mental and physical Inuit healing.
The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is providing funding to support Reconciliation Through the Arts. Funds will help ensure Inuit Elders, artisans, cultural leaders, and fluent Inuktitut speakers are able to guide workshops, learning exchanges, and restorative justice circles. These activities will be integral to creating culturally safe spaces where participants can heal while strengthening Inuit language, culture, and community connections. Those who do move away from the North will have a safe place to land and deal with their unique barriers so they can thrive in the South.
Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall
