Pinasunniq: Reflections on a Northern Indigenous Economy
Press Release
Pinasunniq: Reflections on a Northern Indigenous Economy offers a vision of Inuit economic self-determination.
It challenges the “common sense” Northern economic models that have historically excluded Inuit voices and continue to erase Inuit economic activity. Through economic analysis, narrative, and advocacy, the report asks critical questions about the benefits of government-led policy and approaches of industry. In contrast, it offers examples of Inuit-centered economic frameworks in practice today that prioritize sustainability, reciprocity, and care.
- Part 01 reviews the current landscape, reflecting on systemic barriers to Inuit-led development.
- Part 02 addresses traditional economic activities, particularly hunting, harvesting, and food sovereignty, emphasizing the role of Indigenous knowledge.
- Part 03 explores economic diversity through the arts and care-based economies, with perspectives on healing, meaningful work, and reconciliation.
Ultimately, this edited report is not just an analysis but a call to action to envision and act upon a future where Inuit have the authority to shape their economy in ways that foster cultural revitalization and community well-being. Pinasunniq demonstrates how Inuit leadership in economic discourse can shift us toward a path for transformative change rooted in self-determination and aligning with Inuit values.
KEY QUESTIONS
- What is the relationship between Inuit self-determination and prosperity in the North?
- Nunavut is one of the fastest growing economies in Canada but socio-economic indicators for Inuit are declining — how can this be explained?
- How can hunting, conservation, arts and care inform a holistic, diverse vision of a Northern economy?
- Do mining and related industrial activities in Nunavut benefit Inuit?
RELATED RESOURCES
OVERVIEW
Executive Summary | Pinasunniq: Reflections on a Northern Indigenous Economy
article
The Current State of the Northern Economy for Inuit in Nunavut
This report is meant to help generate dialogue on Inuit defined economy, the trajectory of it and, perhaps, reimagine the path. The chapters in this report centre Inuit perspectives on the concept of economic development with a focus on the hunting economy, arts and economies of care, and community-based efforts that renew and build Inuit values and connections. Meanwhile, it challenges the status quo of resource development, which offers few clear benefits to Inuit but significant threats to Inuit ways of life and the land itself. The report’s authors have reflected several essential and overlooked themes in the discussion on a Northern Indigenous economy.
– editors, kunuk inutiq, hayden king and shari fox
ILR5
