Stronger When We Are Together: Inuit Mothers’ Visions for Child and Family Wellness in Nunavut, Canada

Abstract

ABSTRACT Drawing on research with Inuit mothers from Arviat, Nunavut, this article explores child welfare social services in Nunavut, Canada. Since its inception in the 1950s, the state’s model for child welfare has always been at odds with Nunavummiut life, culture, and beliefs. This article highlights how the design and execution of model of child welfare has provided the majority of decision-making power to Qallunaat (non-Inuit). Through an examination of the experiences of Arviarmiut mothers (Inuit mothers from Arviat, Nunavut), this article considers this model of child welfare in light of how it contributes to fear and a lack of understanding concerning child welfare involvement, as well as its impact on child and family well-being. Based within literature that supports the development of an alternative Indigenous model to child welfare, this study offers critical insights concerning child welfare within Inuit communities in Arctic Canada, and describes Arviarmiut mothers’ recommendations for an Inuit-developed and -led, culturally centered model of child and family wellness.