Francophone Discoveries Communities

Nunavut

Features

More than 70 % of the Francophones in Nunavut live in the capital, Iqaluit. The population is mostly Inuit and, according to the 2021 census, 1,390 people in the territory are bilingual and 520 have French as a first language. It is the only Canadian territory that remains accessible by air only (there are no roads to get there). Summer is short in Nunavut, but it is a great place to see the Northern Lights.

Organization representing the Francophone population

The Association des francophones du Nunavut (AFN) was founded in 1981 when a group of fervent hockey fans decided to band together officially to rebroadcast Montreal Canadiens games. Since then, the AFN has expanded and transformed. Today, it has a vibrant radio station and a newspaper run by an editing committee. The Franco-Centre, acquired from an old military bunker, is now a venue for numerous sociocultural gatherings. The AFN also represents Nunavut’s Francophone community. The creation of a coordination table bringing together all the Francophone organizations has enabled them to better communicate with each other.

Immigration

The AFN is available to answer questions from newcomers and help them integrate socially. In addition, Carrefour Nunavut deploys Francophone immigration initiatives and provides resources for newcomers.

Tourism

As Canada’s youngest territory, Nunavut always delights in inviting travellers to its welcoming homes and above all, its idyllic natural lands. People from all over the world are invited to experience Arctic life, learn about the Inuit way of living, and explore this end of the world where the aurora borealis dance across the northern sky.

Education

Nunavut was founded in 1999, following the partition of the Northwest Territories. As Canada’s youngest territory, Nunavut is always proud to invite travelers into its homes and, more importantly, into its idyllic and unspoiled open spaces. People from all over are invited to come and enjoy life in the Arctic, learn about the Inuit way of life, explore the tundra and watch the Aurora Borealis in the northern sky. Sylvia Grinnell Park and hiking in Apex are just two of countless reasons that draw outdoor enthusiasts in search of rewarding expeditions to Nunavut. The Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum communicates Inuit history and offers educational activities for children and youth. The new recreation centre built in 2017 offers a large pool and workout room for residents and tourists. CFRT community radio and the Théâtre Uiviit, which are part of the AFN’s social and community activities, appeal to those who are interested in communication and theatre.

For more details, visit Salut Canada.