Joe Arlooktoo facts for kids
Joe Arlooktoo, born on June 26, 1939, is a talented artist and a respected leader from northern Canada. He is well-known for his beautiful carvings made from soapstone and ivory. Joe Arlooktoo has also been a politician at both local and territorial levels. He served in the Northwest Territories Legislature from 1979 to 1991. Today, he is a councillor in Kimmirut, Nunavut.
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Joe Arlooktoo: Artist and Leader
Joe Arlooktoo has made a name for himself through his artistic skills. He creates detailed carvings using materials like soapstone and ivory. These materials are often found in the Arctic region where he lives. His art helps share the culture and stories of the North.
Serving in the Legislature
Joe Arlooktoo began his political journey by running for a seat in the Northwest Territories Legislature. This is like a parliament or assembly where elected people make laws for the territory. He won the election in 1979 for the Baffin South area.
He was re-elected two more times, serving a total of three terms. This means he was a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for 12 years, from 1979 to 1991. In 1991, he ran for re-election but was defeated by Kenoayoak Pudlat.
Becoming Mayor of Kimmirut
After his time in the Northwest Territories Legislature, Joe Arlooktoo continued to serve his community. In 2000, he was elected as the mayor of Kimmirut, Nunavut. A mayor is the head of a town or city government. He was re-elected for another term as mayor in 2004, showing his community's trust in his leadership.
Family in Politics
Joe Arlooktoo's son, Goo Arlooktoo, also followed in his father's footsteps. Goo Arlooktoo served in the Northwest Territories Legislature from 1995 to 1999. This shows a family tradition of public service in the North.
External Links
- Scrimshaw carving, McCord Museum of Canadian History
- Katilvik.com Joe Arlooktoo
