Indigenous women in the circumpolar North face persistent disparities in maternal and child health, shaped by colonial histories and systemic inequities. In Kalaallit Nunaat (Greenland) and Nunavut (Canada), healthcare systems have often excluded Indigenous voices. In response, Inuit communities are revitalizing traditional knowledge to support families during the critical first thousand days of a child’s life. While both regions have parenting programs (MANU in Kalaallit Nunaat and Inunnguiniq in Nunavut) they differ in cultural grounding and leadership, highlighting the need for cross-regional learning.
Purpose
Naapinneq aims to strengthen Inuit maternal and child health by fostering cross-border exchange between Kalaallit Nunaat and Nunavut. The project seeks to revitalize Indigenous parenting knowledge in Greenland by learning from the culturally grounded Inunnguiniq program in Nunavut. It also aims to inspire culturally adapted health education, promote intergenerational knowledge sharing, and support healing through community-led, culturally informed practices.
Method
Naapinneq is grounded in in-person exchanges designed to build relationships and foster collaboration between Inuit maternal and child health professionals in Kalaallit Nunaat and Nunavut. In August 2024, a group from Nuuk participated in the Inunnguiniq facilitator workshop in Iqaluit, hosted by the Qaujigiartiit Health Research Centre. The workshop served as a space for cultural exchange, learning, and reflection on Inuit parenting philosophies. The project continues with follow-up activities and planning for a reciprocal visit, where participants from Iqaluit will travel to Nuuk. These exchanges aim to strengthen cross-border connections, support culturally grounded program development, and promote long-term collaboration in Indigenous maternal and child health.
Project period
September 2023 – April 2026
Collaboration and Funding
Qaujigiartiit Health Research Center
Ilisimatusarfik – University of Greenland
Paarisa at the Board of Social Affairs in Greenland
UArctic
International Arctic Science Committee (IASC)