Keeping our culture alive is as important as breathing. I believe our learning doesn’t end when we graduate from high school. Jose Kusugak was one of the people who dedicated his life to making Nunavut a better place. He has set a great example to everyone. I believe his legacy should be passed on to generations to come.
I have been accepted into year one of the four-year Nunavut Teacher’s Education Program. This is just the beginning for me to help people. I believe I will complete the program. I will go for my master’s degree after I receive my bachelor’s degree in education. Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit has a huge impact on Inuit and it’s very important the people know and understand it, as it was created with the knowledge of our beloved Elders. They are essential in our everyday lives. Speaking of Inuit knowledge, I strongly believe that the hard work Jose pursued should not be forgotten.
If every person knew their identity, where they came from, who they are and what their purpose in life is, the world would be a better place. People would have more respect and appreciation. If people like Jose never worked hard for the future, we would not be where we are today. As we can see, we are very fortunate to get this far as Inuit, along with the territory. Nunavut still has some work to do, but we should be proud of how far it has come. Working together is one of the important keys from Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit. Without it, we won’t be going anywhere. During my time here, I will work hard to make sure our language along with our unique culture stay alive.
The Nunavut Land Claims Agreement is an agreement with Inuit and Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada. I believe the agreement has helped a lot of Inuit. It has 42 articles. Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. ensures that the promises are carried out.
Our language is part of who we are. There are many young people, even some Elders who now speak English, and it saddens me to see that. Some Inuit don’t even understand Inuktitut anymore. How did this happen? We must work together to strengthen our language as it’s eventually going to die if nothing is done about it.
Premier Eva Aariak mentioned that Nunavut must have at least 300 Inuktitut teachers to meet the needs of the Education Act. We have a long way to go, but we can meet the requirement one teacher at a time. One person can make a difference. Our Elders are passing on each year. We need leaders who will step up and take over to lead a good example for the younger generations.
When we plan on doing something, we think about it, and one must take action to make it happen. Doing nothing about it won’t make it any better, or trying to leave it behind. It’s like knowing how to swim, but you drown. I hope our language only gets stronger today and tomorrow.
Jose Amaujaq Kusugak sacrificed a lot for Inuit. As long as we educate people about it, he and his legacy will always be remembered. I strongly support him and would like to thank him for all that he did. I will make sure I do my part by continuing to keep our culture alive. I have a high amount of respect for him. God bless his family.
