Mission/Vision/Values

Our Mission:

The mission of the Department of Culture and Heritage is to preserve and enhance Nunavut’s culture, heritage and languages. 

The department achieves its mission by promoting Inuit Societal Values through the application of Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit; promoting the use of Inuit language in the workplace and throughout the territory; promoting access to information and resource materials in Nunavut’s official languages in all communities; assisting non-profit, community-based individuals and organizations in cultural, language, and heritage activities; enhancing public library services across Nunavut; and encouraging on-going dialogue between elders and youth and the government. 

Our Vision:

It is a place where Nunavummiut speak, read and write fluently in at least two languages, and live comfortably in the modern world with traditional cultures and values as a guide.

Our Principles:

We continue to be guided by Inuit Societal Values as we address our challenges and step forward together towards a brighter future:

• Inuuqatigiitsiarniq: Respecting others, relationships and caring for people.
• Tunnganarniq: Fostering good spirits by being open, welcoming and inclusive.
• Pijitsirniq: Serving and providing for family and/or community.
• Aajiiqatigiinniq: Decision making through discussion and consensus.
• Pilimmaksarniq/Pijariuqsarniq: Development of skills through observation, mentoring, practice, and effort.
• Piliriqatigiinniq/Ikajuqtigiinniq: Working together for a common cause.
• Qanuqtuurniq: Being innovative and resourceful.
• Avatittinnik Kamatsiarniq: Respect and care for the land, animals and the environment.