The Innuit People

Penned By: Rtr. Qadirah Israth

The Inuit are Indigenous peoples who inhabit the Arctic regions of Greenland, Canada (especially in Nunavut, the Northwest Territories, Quebec, and Labrador), and Alaska. They are part of a larger group of Arctic peoples known as the Eskimo-Aleut language family, though the term "Eskimo" is now considered outdated and sometimes offensive as it was given by the southerner. "Inuit", meaning "the people" in Inuktitut, is the preferred and respectful term in Canada and Greenland.

The Inuit are descendants of the Thule culture, a prehistoric Arctic people who migrated from Alaska across the Arctic regions of North America around 1,000 years ago. Their traditional territories are among the most challenging environments in the world, characterized by extreme cold, snow, and ice for much of the year.

Their traditional way of life centered around subsistence hunting and gathering, relying on animals such as seals, whales, walrus, caribou, and fish. These animals not only provided food but also materials for clothing, tools, and shelter. Inuit clothing was exceptionally well-suited for cold climates, with parkas made of caribou hide and boots crafted from sealskin, reflecting a deep knowledge of natural materials and survival techniques.

Cultural expression among the Inuit is rich and deeply symbolic. Art, including soapstone carvings, textile work, and printmaking, often depicts animals, spirits, and scenes from daily life, revealing a worldview in which nature and the spiritual world are closely intertwined. Traditional beliefs centered around animism—the idea that all things, including animals, weather, and tools, possess a spirit. The angakkuq, or shaman, played a vital role in the community, serving as a healer and spiritual guide who could communicate with the spirit world.

Language and storytelling are central to Inuit culture. The Inuit speak Inuktitut and related dialects, using oral traditions to pass down history, lessons, and cultural values from one generation to the next. Elders are highly respected for their knowledge and experience, and storytelling, song, and games are important ways of teaching children and preserving heritage. Music and performance, including throat singing—a unique vocal tradition performed typically by women—are also cherished cultural practices that continue today.

In modern times, many Inuit live in established communities, combining traditional practices with contemporary life. While snowmobiles and modern rifles may have replaced dog sleds and harpoons in some places, the connection to the land, animals, and cultural identity remains strong. Inuit communities continue to face challenges, particularly from climate change, which is rapidly transforming the Arctic landscape. Nevertheless, they remain resilient, actively working to preserve their language, traditions, and rights through education, political advocacy, and cultural revitalization.