Uqausirmut Quviasuutiqarniq 2024

It’s not an easy task to hunt seal throughout the year to provide food and clothing for our families in Nunavut. Each year, Uqausirmut Quviasuutiqarniq, meaning “celebration of our language,” highlights the importance of Inuit heritage and its unique traditions rooted in Inuktut. Uqausirmut Quviasuutiqarniq will take place in the month of April, and this year’s theme is 'Nattiq', the ringed seal which has been a key provider to Inuit for generations upon generations.

Seals are an integral part of Inuit culture and history, and have been great providers of food, clothing, tools, and so much more. All parts of the seal are utilized, so nothing goes to waste. Sustainable harvesting continues to promote and strengthen culture, tradition, and self-reliance. Nunavummiut are encouraged to learn and experience how to hunt and properly harvest seals, the terminology and anatomy of the seals, the traditional roles for hunting, butchering, and preparing the seal, and the traditional tools and skills used for working with seals.

Throughout the month, the Department of Culture and Heritage, in partnership with other Government of Nunavut departments, will be promoting a variety of activities and resources to celebrate Inuktut. Whether you are a unilingual elder or learning your first few words, the Inuktut learning journey is a welcomed space for everyone.

Check our Uqausirmut Quviasuutiqarniq page for updates on activities for the celebration of Inuktut language and culture. Let's shine a light on the beauty and importance of Inuktut!