Tallurutiup Imanga to Greenland Expedition: Update 1
When our journey began in Qausuittuq (Resolute Bay, NU), we were immediately brought into the unique world of the High Arctic. As we got on the Ocean Endeavour (our new floating home), we were acquainted with the particular mix of polar desert and deep blue ocean that would become the background of our future adventures. When we boarded the ship, SOI alumnus Devon Manik told us a little bit about his life as a polar bear hunter—giving us an insight into the way that land and culture intersect for the Inuit people who call this region home. Our group had all met in Ottawa a few days prior to this moment. We had already grown together through leadership development activities and urban exploration. Our departure from Qausuittuq, though, marked the true beginning of our voyage.
The next day, we were all invited to participate in an introduction to the Arctic, led by Inuit cultural educators and Elders on the ship. The ceremony set the tone for the rest of the day, as we reflected on our place as visitors in this region. That reflection continued as our group gathered to share their goals, intentions, and hopes for this trip. Many were brought up—but a single thread was tied throughout them: curiosity.
Later that day, our Expedition Leaders Lynda and Shirley, introduced us to the story of Beechey Island. They helped us think critically about this landmark’s place in Canadian history before we headed to shore. When we landed, we were introduced to the story of Sir Franklin and the Northumberland House by the island’s brilliant archeologists and historians. That experience, paired with the encouragement to think critically, opened some deep conversation about history—and who gets to shape it.
We saw another side of the Arctic’s rich history at Port Leopold. There, historians, archeologists, and cultural educators told us about several collections of Inuit homes that had been built in the port over several centuries. Seeing how the foundations of those homes withstood thousands of years of weathering brought the Inuit’s deep knowledge of how to live on the land into stark contrast with the already decaying homes of British explorers from just over a century ago. In the afternoon, we were brought to Prince Leopold Island to view the world’s most diverse bird colony. It was a great day experiencing a little bit of everything Port Leopold has to offer.
We were woken up early the next day to the sight of a Polar Bear! That became the theme of the day as we weren’t allowed to land on the island (due to the bear) but we spent the rest of the day getting closer and closer to THREE bears. It was awesome to experience one of Canada’s iconic animals up close and firsthand.
That brings us to today! We got up bright and early to go on our first big hike. It was a beautiful foray into a river valley in Cuming Inlet. The hike ended with a couple of our (crazy) participants jumping in for their polar dip a bit early! That wasn’t the only polar dip of the day, though. Only a few hours later the whole ship was invited to jump in the frigid arctic waters and it was a blast.
That has been the trip so far – lots of reflection, adventure, and growth. Most importantly, there have been amazing connections built. We know it’s pretty early but we can already see lifelong friendships forming.