DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ONTARIO NORTH EAST
DSB1 Proud to Collaborate with Piita Irniq

District school Board Ontario North East (DSB1) is proud to be working with Piita Irniq, an Inuit Elder, towards greater understanding of the Inuit culture.  During his first visit to Timmins, Mr. Irniq has shared invaluable knowledge and powerful stories.  He presented to our Board of Trustees on April 2^nd on how best to move forward to ensure that our Inuksuik are respectful of the Inuit culture.

Mr. Irniq was born in Naujaat, in what is now known as Nunavut.  He was born in an igloo and grew up in the traditional Inuit way: trapping, hunting and living off the land.  He was sent to residential school at age 11.

Mr. Irniq was first elected to the Legislative Assembly of the North West Territories in 1975.  He played a key role in the establishment of Nunavut, an important milestone for Inuit people in self-governance and in reclaiming their land. 

Mr. Irniq continues to work tirelessly to preserve and promote Inuit culture and languages.  He collaborates with groups and organizations around the world to build Inuksuit and share the Inuit culture and language. We look forward to continuing to build a close relationship with him.