Utqiaviks

Utqiaviks refers to the people of Utqiagvik, Alaska. Utqiagvik is the North Slope Borough seat and the northernmost city in the United States. The community is located on the Arctic coast, about 300 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Historically, Utqiagvik has been a significant center for the Iñupiat people for centuries. The Iñupiat are an Indigenous people of the Arctic and subarctic regions of Alaska and Siberia. Their traditional way of life has been deeply intertwined with the Arctic environment, relying on hunting and fishing for sustenance.

The economy of Utqiagvik is influenced by the oil and gas industry, as well as subsistence activities. Subsistence hunting of whales, seals, and caribou remains a vital part of the cultural and nutritional landscape for many residents. The unique challenges and opportunities of living in the Arctic shape the community's identity and resilience. The name "Utqiagvik" itself is an Iñupiat word, meaning "a place where we hunt snowy owls." This reflects the deep connection between the people and their environment. The community faces ongoing issues related to climate change, coastal erosion, and the preservation of their cultural heritage.