In the Greenlandic capital of Nuuk, Aviaja Rakel Sanimuinaq sits proudly on a polar bear pelt, symbolic of her Inuit heritage. She embodies a growing movement among Greenlanders who are reviving and embracing their traditional Inuit practices and spirituality.
A shaman adorned with traditional Inuit facial tattoos, Sanimuinaq employs spiritual healing methods to help individuals reconnect with their ancestors and address intergenerational trauma. Her studio, adorned with symbols of the natural and spiritual world like seal skulls and raven feathers, features a sign declaring: “Ancient knowledge in a modern world.” This highlights her mission to integrate historical traditions with contemporary life.
Many Greenlanders like Sanimuinaq are reclaiming pre-Christian Inuit customs, such as tattoo art and drum dancing. These practices were historically suppressed by European Christian missionaries who considered them pagan. Sanimuinaq expresses appreciation for Christianity but equally values spiritual traditions from around the world, including her Inuit heritage, as part of a broader cultural recognition and empowerment within Greenland.
Inhabitants of Greenland, primarily identifying as Inuit, have lived in harmony with one of the planet’s harshest environments for generations, expertly adapting with a lifestyle centered on hunting and respecting nature. Despite the vast majority following Christianity brought by Danish missionaries over 300 years ago, a growing nationalist sentiment in Greenland supports a move towards full independence from Denmark, aligning with recent political campaigns.
The push for independence gained international attention when U.S. President Donald Trump controversially suggested acquiring Greenland, propelling Greenland’s independence discourse onto the global stage. This has created a new platform for suppressed voices within Greenland to speak out against historical injustices and colonial experiences.
Inuit traditional practices, like facials tattoos known as “Tunniit,” were linked to spiritual beliefs, marking important life transitions such as menstruation and childbirth. However, they were previously condemned by missionaries, a sentiment that deterred many Greenlanders from continuing these practices. Today, women like Therecie Sanimuinaq Pedersen are reclaiming these symbols, inspired by recent generations’ acceptance and pride in Inuit identity.
Drumming has also returned as a significant cultural practice. The “qilaat,” an Inuit drum, traditionally served various roles: entertainment, spiritual guidance, and even settling disputes in public duels. Such drumming contests historically acted as courtroom dramas, albeit informally, determined by community consensus instead of official judgment.
The relationship between Denmark and Greenland, formerly a colony, is complex. Although now self-governing, remnants of colonial influence linger, with Greenlanders accusing Denmark of historical injustices such as forced assimilation and controversial population control measures. Today’s nationalistic movements have unearthed these narratives and fostered a reaffirmation of pre-colonial identity.
Amidst this cultural resurgence, individuals like singer Naja Parnuuna are using their talents to celebrate Inuit identity and encourage pride in Greenland’s rich heritage. Her music and public advocacy aim to dismantle social stigmas and empower young Greenlanders to embrace their roots. Inspired by societal leaders and historical figures advocating for justice and equality, Parnuuna and others are redefining what it means to be proudly Greenlandic.
This awakening of Inuit culture represents a broader movement towards reconciliation with the past, allowing Greenlanders to reclaim self-respect and cultural esteem. By reviving traditional practices, younger generations are finding new ways to connect with their heritage and foster a positive future.