PatRiitaq – Picture Caqiq una patRiitami? – What is this in the picture? Art is often a means of storing information, particularly among people without a written language. In addition to expressing cultural values, songs, dances, carvings, paintings, and even clothing can record family stories, historical events, and legends. Pictures are particularly important in preserving […]
Alimaq – Dog Salmon Alimat kuigmen asgurtaartut. – Dog salmon always go up the stream. Chum salmon, also known as dog salmon (Oncorhynchus keta), are the most widely available species of Pacific salmon. These large fish live in marine waters from southern California to the Arctic Ocean and the Sea of Japan. Chum can reach […]
Kenegtaq – Low Bush Cranberry Ing’im ceniini kenegtangq’rtuq. – The mountainside has cranberries. The lowbush cranberry, or lingonberry (Vaccinium vitisidaea), is a creeping plant with thick, oval, shiny, green leaves; pink, bell-shaped flowers; and round, red berries. The word kenegtaq literally means “something pressed down.” This plant flowers in mid to late June and is […]
Lisngasqaq – Learned One Gui lisngasqaq Alutiit’stun. – I am learned in the Alutiiq language. The Alutiiq word lisngasqaq is a respectful term, used in reference to someone who is considered wise. You might use this word to talk about a teacher, a mentor, or an Elder with the ability to share valuable knowledge. For […]