 |
Interviews
with
Arviat
Elders |
James
Konek
James
was born at Hanningajuq and grew up around Kingarjuaq. His mom’s name was
Qatuk and his dad’s name was Atangajuaq. His brother’s names were Kaakak
and Qamaluaq, and they could all fit in one tent. His family spent the
winter near a store here in Arviat, and his father used to work at the
store nearby. They spent the summer all around different places. They used
to travel by kayaks in the summer and walked during winter. They lived
with his dad’s brother, and his family. They used to travel with the family
only, and sometimes traveled with other families.
James
and his family were brought to Arviat by plane on May 10, 1960. He knew
right away his lifestyle would change, because he started noticing little
changes, like fathers wanting to marry their daughters. It was hard for
some people, but for James, it was easy to notice things. James also didn’t
know Arviat’s land, so he knew his life would change. He learned right
away about the land, he knows what the land looks like now and he knows
where to go. The police asked him if he wanted to go back to his old homeland,
but he made the choice to stay here in Arviat because he had a family.
The police thought it would be good for him to go back because he was a
good hunter. If he caught a lot of caribou, then he would bring the food
to Arviat. But James made the choice to stay. He learned all about being
a man, hunting, helping and showing respect. His father taught him. James
was very open minded and willing, he is also very patient.
<<Back