Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ) Principles

Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit refers to Inuit "Traditional Knowledge" and the abbreviated reference is "IQ Principles". Inuit have a long-time understanding that these codes of behaviour are based on time-honored values and practices. These values and practices have been communicated to 140 younger generations of Inuit at a very early age through songs, direct modeling of behaviour, stories and legends that teach about the success associated with remembering and practicing Inuit values and beliefs as well as the value in handing down this knowledge through inter-generational relationships and teachings.

The Manitoba Inuit Association strives to be guided by these values based on the eight guiding IQ Principles.

1. ᐃᓅᖃᑎᒌᑦᓯᐊᕐᓂᖅ-Inuuqatigiitsiarniq - Respecting others, relationships and caring for people.

The concept of respect and treating others equally are characteristics the elders have always stressed in their words of advice (uqaujjuusiat).

2. ᑐᙵᓇᕐᓂᖅ -Tunnganarniq - Fostering good spirit by being open, welcoming and inclusive.

The concept of making the workplace people-friendly by being welcoming and accepting to our community, elders, colleagues and others. Removing language and cultural barriers is important in welcoming people.

3. ᐱᔨᑦᓯᕐᓂᖅ- Pijitsirniq - Concept of serving.

The concept of serving is central to the Inuit style of leadership as is the measure of the maturity and wisdom of an Inuk. Key here is the understanding that each person has a contribution to make and is a valued contributor to his/her community. Staff will be expected to demonstrate this kind of leadership and commitment to serving the common good.

4. ᐋᔩᖃᑎᒌᓐᓂᖅ- Aajiiqatigiinniq - Consensus Decision Making.

Decision making through discussion and consensus - the concept of consensus decision-making relies on strong communication skills and a strong belief in shared goals. All staff are expected to become contributing members of their community and to participate actively in building the strength of Inuit in Manitoba. Being able to think and act collaboratively, to assist with the development of shared understandings, to resolve conflict in consensus-building ways, and to consult respecting various perspectives and worldviews, are expectations that cross all working areas.

5. ᐱᓕᒻᒪᒃᓴᕐᓂᖅ -Pilimmaksarniq/Pijariuqsarniq - Concept of Skills and Knowledge Acquisition.

Development of skills through observation, mentoring, practice, and effort - the concept of skills and knowledge acquisition and capacity building is central to the success of Inuit in a harsh environment. Building personal capacity in Inuit ways of knowing and doing are key expectations for staff. Demonstrating empowerment to lead a successful and productive life, that is respectful of all, is a powerful end goal of our working environment.

6. ᐃᑲᔪᖅᑎᒌᓐᓂᖅ - Ikajuqtigiinniq/Piliriqatigiinniq - Concept of Collaborative Relationship or Working Together for a Common purpose

The essential Inuit belief that stresses the importance of the group over the individual should pervade all our work. Expectations for staff will reflect working for the common good, collaboration, shared leadership and volunteerism. Piliriqatigiingniq also sets expectations for supportive behaviour development, strong relationship-building and consensus-building.

7. ᖃᓄᖅᑑᕐᓂᖅ- Qanuqtuurniq - Concept of Being Resourceful to Solve problems.

Being innovative and resourceful - the concept of being resourceful to solve problems, through innovative and creative use of resources and demonstrating adaptability and flexibility in response to a rapidly changing world, are strengths all our staff should develop. Resourcefulness should be demonstrated in all work areas and also thinking that seeks to improve the context in which Inuit live.

8. ᐊᕙᑎᑦᑎᓐᓂᒃ ᑲᒪᑦᓯᐊᕐᓂᖅ- Avatittinnik Kamatsiarniq - Concept of Environmental Stewardship.

Respect and care for the land, animals and the environment - the concept of environmental stewardship stresses the key relationship Inuit have with their environment and with the world in which they live. Staff will be expected to articulate respect for this mutually interdependent relationship and to demonstrate responsible behaviors that seek to improve and protect the relationship in ways that meet global challenges to environmental wellness.