This course explores the concept of placemaking among the Inuit in Canada’s Arctic, where traditional ways of connecting to the land intersect with contemporary challenges. From naming practices that affirm a sense of belonging to the construction of new pathways and cabins on the tundra, Inuit placemaking is a rich tapestry of cultural preservation, adaptation, and identity. We will examine how the Inuit, as stewards of their environment, continue to infuse meaning into the Arctic landscape despite changes brought on by modernization, resource extraction, and climate pressures.

In this course, you will:

• Gain insights into the historical roots of Inuit place-based knowledge.
• Understand the cultural significance of language in marking and connecting to places.
• Examine the social and environmental impacts of roads, cabins, and village expansions.
• Discover how contemporary Inuit communities balance tradition with modern infrastructure.

This course is ideal for those interested in Indigenous studies, urban planning, and environmental sustainability, providing a unique look into how Inuit people shape and are shaped by the Arctic.