Singer talks to Kivalliq kids
Darrell Greer
Northern News Services
Rankin Inlet (Mar 12/01) - Kids across the Kivalliq kept Susan Aglukark busy answering questions and signing autographs on her regional tour.
The Canadian recording artist and Kivalliq native stopped in six out of seven hamlets.
She met with school kids in Rankin Inlet, Whale Cove, Baker Lake and Arviat. She also stopped briefly in Coral Harbour and Repulse Bay to meet with local kids at the airport.
Although Aglukark did sing during her visits, her focus was to help kids understand the social issues they face are the same for kids across Canada.
"I wanted them to open up, ask questions and begin a dialogue with me or any other person in order to understand kids across Canada face many of the same problems they do," says Aglukark.
The popular artist talked about other issues, sang when asked and went out of her way to show kids not all celebrities are unapproachable.
"I'm not even comfortable with the term celebrity. I'm proud of the fact I'm the same person who left here about nine years ago and want them to see that."
Aglukark says through the Internet she's beginning to see a natural curiosity among Kivalliq kids which is helping them understand the outside world is accessible.
She says just because a person comes from a small, isolated community does not mean they can't get out and see the world.
"I think the youth are beginning to understand you don't have to leave home to be successful.
"Success is not based on fame, fortune and ownership. It's based on reaching an age where you're happy with who you are and what surrounds you."
Aglukark says the importance of Kivalliq kids having positive role models in their community is almost incalculable.
But, she adds, it's essential for them to have role models they feel they can relate to.
"When I answer their questions and tell them I can relate to what they're feeling, they know I can. They know I'm not making it up. This is where I come from and I feel that gives me a better chance to make a difference with these kids."
