Module VIII - Cultural Connections

Essential Question:
How are Arctic sea-ice, climate and culture all connected?

ENGAGE

I See Cultural Connections
In April, 2009, representatives of indigenous peoples from across the planet converged on Anchorage, Alaska to discuss the impacts of climate change in their respective regions.

Along with developing strategies to help curtail changes, as well as adapt to them, representatives also worked to improve cultural understanding in order to help assure the sustainability of indigenous cultures living closest to the land and traditionally relying most directly on its natural resources.

As the Arctic is in the forefront of climate change and the research surrounding it, it's fitting that the Inuit Circumpolar Council (I.C.C.) hosted this impressive international gathering in Alaska to do the work of seeking a common voice for the world's remaining indigenous peoples.

EXPLORE

I.C.C. -- Inuit Circumpolar Council
The Inuit Circumpolar Council represents Inuit people of the Arctic from all Arctic nations. Watch the videoclip on the website introduction page for the Inuit Circumpolar Council, Canada, then continue on and read the Inuit Circumpolar Council, Canada on Climate Change.

2009 Indigenous Peoples' Global Summit on Climate Change
Take a few minutes to download and read the PDF, 2009 Indigenous Peoples' Global Summit on Climate Change--Anchorage Declaration.


EXPLAIN

• What does the IPGS Anchorage declaration seek to accomplish?
• Why is climate change a particular problem for indigenous peoples?
• Why is the ICC in a unique position to comment on climate change?

EXTEND

• What is the role of information technology in addressing the cultural concerns of Arctic people?
• What other online resources reflect the climate perspectives of indigenous peoples?

EVALUATE

• What are some of the values of using indigenous information sources?

Helpful Hint: OurWorld 2.0 Imagine a WebZine with the cultural awareness, relevance and visual appeal of National Geographic and that asks the question: "What can we do when faced with complex, inter-connected and pressing problems like climate change, oil depletion, food security and biodiversity?"

Check out Our World 2.0 for more great articles and videos on the relationships between indigenous peoples and their places.


EXPLORE SOME MORE....

Teachers Domain Check out these TD videos on the impacts of climate change on cultures that have depended on Arctic sea-ice for millennia.

Global Warming Threatens Shishmaref





Arctic Climate Perspectives





Hunters Navigate Warming Arctic






Career Connections
What does a Barrow-born Iñupiaq scientist have to say about the importance of education and scientific literacy in preserving the land, resources and culture of indigenous people? Watch this TD video profile, Steve MacLean: Conservationist, and find out.

Steve MacLean: Conservationist






EXPLAIN

• What is the role of sea-ice in providing food for Arctic people?
• How has the unpredictability of seasons changed the lifestyle of Arctic peoples?

EXTEND

• What other online resources profile Alaska Native scientists?

EVALUATE

• What are some unique values of indigenous people engaged in scientific careers?