Nunavik Elders Dialogue

Ullukkut,

During the recent exchange sessions, several opportunities for dialogue allowed us to come together to discuss our practices and our approach to supporting elders and families. These discussions were grounded in active listening, respect for each other’s experiences, and a commitment to valuing the diverse knowledge present.

A perspective inspired by culture and lived experiences

The presentation by the Isurrivik Centre drew particular attention, highlighting an approach centered on the individual, their pace, and their autonomy. The testimonials illustrated journeys marked by significant transitions:

• moving from isolation to a sense of security,
• regaining an active role in the community,
• living in an environment that supports without imposing, and that respects everyone’s identity. These examples fueled a collective reflection on what “caring” truly means in a northern and culturally rooted context.

The videos produced by Avataq, which focus on life in Nunavik in the 1970s, provided a particularly meaningful moment. Through these short clips, we hear the voices of the elders as they share their memories, experiences, and perspectives on life during that era. These stories are accompanied by archival photos, which illustrate and concretely anchor the words in the lived experience of the territory and the community. Together, they created a genuine moment for listening and reconnection, sparking profound discussions about collective memory, the transmission of knowledge, and cultural continuity in our current practices.

Furthermore, the presentation of multi-service day centers (MDSCs) by Cree partners provided concrete examples of services developed elsewhere. Although presented as an inspiration, this initiative sparked very interesting discussions. It allowed us to:

• compare different approaches,
• consider what might or might not be suitable for our context,
• and enrich the dialogue on how to better meet the needs of communities.

These elements sparked in-depth discussions on the continuity between these realities and our current practices.

Meaningful Discussions

Group and plenary discussions allowed us to identify, together:

• what works well in our settings,
• the challenges we face,
• and above all, our shared aspirations for services that are more humane and culturally safe.

Many voices emphasized the importance of recognizing the knowledge of service users, elders, families, and communities, and of creating spaces where this knowledge can be fully expressed.

Areas for reflection

Without seeking to impose models, the discussions helped identify key directions:

• continue to ground our practices in Inuit culture, language, and values,
• foster environments that support dignity, autonomy, and a sense of belonging,
• place human relationships and presence at the center,
• strengthen ties between services, families, and the community,
• maintain spaces for dialogue to reflect together and adjust our practices.

In conclusion

These sessions served as a reminder that cultural safety is a living process, built on relationships, active listening, and mutual recognition. The discussions helped identify potential solutions that are grounded in our reality and respect the knowledge and values of the communities we serve.

The gathering came to a meaningful close with traditional throat singing, a unifying moment that strengthened the connection to our culture and highlighted the importance of these living traditions in our communities.

Nakurmiik to everyone who contributed to these discussions.

Cultural Safety Team
Ungava Tulattavik Health Center