“Google Doodle Honors Inuk Author as a Beloved Icon: The Celebration of ‘Everybody’s Mother'”

Google Doodle Honors Late Inuk Author Mitiarjuk Nappaaluk on National Indigenous Peoples Day

On National Indigenous Peoples Day, visitors to Google’s home page were treated to a celebration of the late Inuk author Mitiarjuk Nappaaluk. The temporary interactive feature, known as a Google Doodle, highlighted Nappaaluk’s significant contributions to preserving Inuit culture and language.

A Moment of Recognition

The Google Doodle, illustrated by Inuk artist Gayle Uyagaqi Kabloona of Ottawa, aims to shed light on the life and works of Mitiarjuk Nappaaluk. Kabloona expressed her joy and satisfaction in being able to contribute to spreading awareness of Nappaaluk’s important role in Inuit history. She believes that this recognition can help reshape the perception of Canada as an Indigenous nation.

Representation Matters

One of the vital aspects of the Google Doodle project was its collaboration with Inuk author and researcher Norma Dunning, who has extensively studied and written about Nappaaluk. Dunning expressed her appreciation for any form of Indigenous exposure and information disseminated throughout the country, particularly when it is positive and showcases the vibrant aspects of Indigenous life.

Preserving Inuit Culture and Language

Mitiarjuk Nappaaluk, born in 1931 in the Nunavik region of northern Quebec, was raised with a deep respect for traditional Inuit teachings. Although she never attended school, Nappaaluk taught herself to write in Inuktitut syllabics with the guidance of Catholic missionaries during the 1950s. She also played a crucial role in helping the missionaries learn the Inuit language and translate scriptures.

Nappaaluk’s passion for education was reflected in her more than 20 books, which covered a range of topics including Inuit traditions, knowledge, stories, and language. Many of her works are now used in schools across Nunavik. Her most well-known publication, “Saanaq,” was one of the first Inuktitut novels and explored the challenges faced by an Inuit family in the wake of colonization.

In addition to her literary accomplishments, Nappaaluk served as a consultant with the Kativik School Commission for over three decades and contributed to preserving Inuit traditions and language. She was a cherished member of her community, viewed by many as a mother figure who deeply cared for the well-being and education of children.

A Legacy of Recognition

Mitiarjuk Nappaaluk’s contributions were widely recognized and honored during her lifetime. In 1999, she received a National Aboriginal Achievement Award (now known as the Indspire Award) in the culture, heritage, and spirituality category. She was also awarded an honorary doctorate from McGill University in 2000 and became a member of the Order of Canada in 2004.

Furthermore, Nappaaluk’s impact extended beyond her literary achievements. She also received the Mary Scorer Award for the best book by a Manitoba publisher. To commemorate her novel “Saanaq,” the Sanaaq cultural and community center is set to open in downtown Montreal in 2024.

A Catalyst for Change

Norma Dunning hopes that the Google Doodle honoring Mitiarjuk Nappaaluk will inspire individuals, especially the younger generation, to learn about and reflect upon her life and legacy. Dunning emphasizes the importance of recognizing Indigenous people as knowledgeable and professional individuals, challenging stigmas and misconceptions that may persist.

Conclusion

The Google Doodle celebrating and recognizing the late Inuk author Mitiarjuk Nappaaluk on National Indigenous Peoples Day serves as a powerful homage to her work in preserving Inuit culture and language. Through their collaboration with Inuk artist Gayle Uyagaqi Kabloona and author Norma Dunning, Google emphasizes the significance of Indigenous representation and encourages a deeper appreciation for the contributions of Indigenous knowledge and art. It is our hope that this recognition sparks further reflection and education, paving the way for a more inclusive and culturally rich Canada.