When we talk of literacy, what does that mean? It encompasses more than just the ability to read and write; it’s about having the skills and knowledge to understand, interpret, and communicate effectively. Literacy is the foundation upon which individuals build their lives, shaping their education, career opportunities, and overall well-being. It can also be defined broadly as understanding and the recognition of the world around us, or as Ilitaqsiniq (Nunavut Literacy Council) puts it: “Seeing and knowing what you see.”
As United for Literacy celebrates its 125th anniversary, it’s not just about looking back; it’s about looking forward. While we reflect on the importance of literacy in empowering communities, we continue to adapt and innovate, codesigning programs with our partners to meet the evolving needs of learners across Nunavik.
The summer of 2023 marked the 10th year of the Kativik Ilisarniliriniq Summer Literacy Camps in Nunavik, and the excitement was palpable. For four weeks straight, there’s laughter, games, cooking, and of course — lots of reading. Parents are thrilled to see their children socializing, moving their bodies, and honing skills that don’t involve screens. One parent in Puvirnituq had this to say: “This camp is pure magic. My daughter had a tough time in Grade 1 and started dreading school. But ever since she joined this camp, she’s counting down the days ‘til school starts again.”
For the staff (65 per cent of counsellors were hired locally!), it’s not just hard work – it’s a chance to gain valuable and meaningful work experience while making lasting memories. Sixteen-year-old Saralikitaa Angnatuk sums it up: “It’s really wonderful to work there as a counsellor, teaching kids how to read and write can be really fun. I’ve been working as a counsellor for about two years and I love it, I hope these kids one day will remember how much of a great time they had during the camp.” This summer, a new collaboration with ESUMA will allow local counsellors and other youth in the community to take part in new and exciting learning opportunities tailored to their interests, doubling the fun, and engaging 13–18-year-olds in summer activities!
During the school year, United for Literacy has been running Kativik Ilisarniliriniq’s Math and Literacy Tutor program since 2017, offering additional individualized support to students in 10 high schools this year. After all, shooting basketballs can help you develop your hand-eye coordination — but it can also teach you some math and Excel skills… you can count on the tutors when it comes to new and creative ways to approach abstract concepts like probability! It’s all about giving students that extra confidence boost to navigate the challenges of academics and to tackle their exam period with assurance.
Last winter, ESUMA and United for Literacy conducted a comprehensive literacy needs assessment. All 14 communities were visited and conversations with hundreds of people were had to see how Nunavimmiut view and interpret literacy, the learning challenges, and gaps in areas where support is most needed. Parents and community members expressed a desire for more Inuktitut resources, access to more books, and ways to make reading fun for the kids. Recommendations highlight holistic approaches to literacy and learning that considers current community structures and spaces, and United for Literacy is planning several community programs to respond to these findings, in collaboration with a wide array of partners.
Unikkausiit Uummatut also made an appearance in 2023. Launched in partnership with ESUMA, these were 1,000 Inuktitut-English learning kits that made their way into the homes of families across Nunavik. This represents thousands of books, in both Hudson and Ungava dialects, along with supplies and activity ideas promoting early literacy and family bonding. This project paves the way for new, future avenues of collaboration with SIPPE, Tasiurtigiit (Agir Tôt) and family houses, consolidating literacy support to families in the communities.
On the Horizon
Today, United for Literacy and ESUMA eagerly anticipate the second edition of Unikkausiit Uummatut and the launch of the Mobile Library Project in several communities. Youth-led and creating a revolving door for students to become “reading role models” in their community, the Mobile Library anchors literacy programming while simultaneously offering access to books. Piloted in Salluit in 2020, the Mobile Library is a vibrant, informal space that not only offers student jobs during the school year, it also serves as a catalyst and hub for future community-driven literacy initiatives, firmly rooted in the belief that the future rests in the capable hands of Nunavimmiut youth.
As we embark in our second decade of programming in Nunavik, and our 125th year of programming overall, we and our partners remain steadfast in our dedication to supporting the literacy and well-being of the children, teens, families, and community members of Nunavik, recognizing that education is not only a fundamental right but also a powerful tool for empowerment and resilience.
United for Literacy is a proud partner of Makivvik (Ungaluk Fund), Kativik Ilisarniliriniq, ESUMA and KRG. Nakurmiik for your ongoing support and generous contribution to programs! For more information on our programs in Nunavik, please contact Krystyna: kslawecki@unitedforliteracy.ca
