In this week’s episode of Roots and Hoots, host Gordon Spence is thrilled to be joined by the Arctic Rose herself, Susan Aglukark. Susan Aglukark is an Inuk woman from the community of Arviat which is in the Kivalliq region of Nunavut. Susan discusses life before her career as a singer-songwriter, including her time spent working at Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, to her decision to dedicate her life to music. Susan’s iconic voice and sound has enabled her to travel the world, performing for royal and state dignitaries, including the late great Nelson Mandela.

Show Notes:

• ITK - About Canadian Inuit
• Inuit Nunangat Map
• Inuktitut
• Inuit naming tradition (CBC article)
• Arviat
• Chesterfield Inlet
• Polar bears

• Federal Hostel at Frobisher Bay (Ukkivik Student Residence)
• Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada
• MuchMusic
• CBC Northern Affairs
• The JUNO Awards
• Arctic Rose Foundation
• Searching by Susan Aglukark
• Dreams for You by Susan Aglukark
• O Siem by Susan Aglukark
• 30th Anniversary Tour of This Child in 2025

Additionally:

• Article on Susan’s Inuktitut teacher David Owingayak
• CMHR - The story of Nelson Mandela

Ayaya is a proud sponsor of the Roots and Hoots podcast and you can visit their website at ayaya.ca

For more information about the Legacy of Hope Foundation, please visit legacyofhope.ca