Thursday July 9 is Nunavut day.

The day commemorates the passing of two Nunavut acts by the Canadian Parliament: The Nunavut Land Claims Agreement Act and the Nunavut Act on July 9, 1993.

It is a holiday for the people of Nunavut. Typical activities include traditional games, dances and communal meals.

Happy Celebrations!

 

“On National Aboriginal Day, I encourage all Canadians to pay tribute to the immense contributions, unique heritage and vibrant cultures of Aboriginal peoples who live, work and study in communities across Canada.

“Aboriginal peoples have always played a defining role in the development of this great country and continue to contribute greatly to all areas of Canadian life. The diverse cultures of Canada’s First Nations, Métis and Inuit are celebrated across Canada from coast to coast to coast, from pow wows in British Columbia, to Back to Batoche Festival Days in Saskatchewan, to the Toonik Tyme Festival in Iqaluit.

“Our Government is committed to building strong First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities. That is why over the past few years through both our economic action plans and legislation we have made significant contributions to education and training, community infrastructure – including healthcare and water treatment facilities – land claims, matrimonial rights, financial transparency, and emergency preparedness.

“Aboriginal peoples have helped shape Canada’s past and will be a vital part of our future. During National Aboriginal Day and throughout National Aboriginal History Month in June, I encourage all Canadians to learn more about Canada’s First Nations, Métis and Inuit, to recognize their integral contributions to the Canadian identity, and to participate in the many special events celebrating their cultures.”

Growing up as a child in Nigeria,  I heard many stories from different adults all around me. I considered one of my aunts the best story-teller because she could weave an interesting story out of any theme. Patricia, my wife, is also a great storyteller. She once told me an enjoyable story for almost an hour, all of it made up as she went along!

I was told different kinds of stories: real, fantasy; fun, boring; happy, sad; soothing, scary; some of animals and men, others of spirits. Varied as all of these stories, there was always something to learn, an important message that the story-teller wanted to impart.

I always enjoyed listening to the stories, though I may have had very little understanding of the core messages behind them. I loved animal stories best.

In reading some Inuit stories, I found they shared many similar elements and messages with tales from my childhood. As with my childhood stories, I also found a number of themes and messages that appear to conflict with contemporary understanding and viewpoints.

In this category, I would place stories of spirits having encounters with humans. Appearing in various forms, mostly scary, they are often presented as having power over, with humans helpless and completely at their mercy. 

The conflicting messages that such stories carry should not stand as a hinderance to the appreciation of the relevance and impact of those stories in traditional cultures. I think the essence of these stories remain valid for the people.

If you have never read any traditional Inuit or other aboriginal story, I encourage you to try one. Google is a great resource to finding aboriginal myths and stories. You will discover poetry, fantasy and adventure. You might also find the source of some of the astounding vision and creativity of Inuit and other aboriginal artists.

Olu

The photo above was taken in Quaqtaq, a small community on the Ungava coast in Nunavik, Northern Quebec. The young girl is my friend's daughter and we were all headed out on the land to enjoy the warm day. It was a beautiful afternoon in May and a perfect day to be out on the land.

Our Canada is a land of people from many different nations, tribes and tongues. The lyrics of our national anthem aptly portrays our enthusiasm and pride in our dear country.  The first peoples of Canada: First nations, Inuit and Metis, through many centuries have established cultures and traditions that for us at Northern Expressions forms a fundamental basis for that pride. Their visual art especially, is a proud testament of the depths of talent, inspiration, skill and quality that is Canada's.

Since the 1950's the awareness and appreciation for Canadian aboriginal art has grown. Northern expressions is proud of Canada's aboriginal heritage and achievements through art and we want you, our visitors and customers to enjoy our pride. 

This is a new journey for us and as Shakespeare said, "...the eyes sees not itself but by reflection...." You are invited to send your comments and feedback as we walk this road together.

Thanks a lot!

Olu