First Annual Nunavut Literary Prize a Success

IQALUIT, Nunavut (April 5, 2004) –A resident of Ikpiarjuk (Arctic Bay) and a resident of Arviat are the first recipients of the Culture, Language, Elders and Youth Nunavut Literary Prize.

Morty Alooloo of Ikpiarjuk received the first prize of $6,000. Alooloo wrote about the changing Inuit way of life and how the traditional words of advice passed on by elders can be used to strengthen the culture. Paul Issakiark of Arviat received the $4,000 second prize for his story about a father passing along the knowledge of a hunter and going out on the land with his son.

Leo Tulugajuk, Miriam Aglukkaq and Helen Power received honourable mentions.

The Department of Culture, Language, Elders and Youth launched the annual literary prize to increase Inuktitut literature available for adult readers.

“While Inuktitut is the majority language in Nunavut, very few books in our language have been published for adult readers,” said Minister of Culture Language, Elders and Youth Louis Tapardjuk. “We know that many Nunavummiut are excellent storytellers and writers who have stories and ideas that need to be written down and shared.”

Authors of any age were invited to participate. Literature eligible for consideration included: fiction and non-fiction, autobiographical, biographical, collected letters, poetry, academic, how-to and self help books, testimonials and journals, guidebooks and film scripts. Over 180 entries were received.

The department is working with the Nunavut Literacy Council to publish the two winning entries in an illustrated book, expected in the fall of 2004.

Ikpiarjuk MLA Levi Barnabas is presenting Alooloo with her prize on behalf of Tapardjuk. The presentation will take place April 6, 2004 in Ikpiarjuk at 3:00 p.m. at the Multi-Purpose Centre.

A presentation for Paul Issakiark will take place in the community of Arviat in the near future.

Residents of Ikpiarjuk and Arviat are invited to attend the presentation ceremonies.