Gwich’in Culture

The Gwich’in culture is rooted in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions of Alaska and Canada, emphasizing profound respect for the land, animals, and community. Traditionally, they are nomadic or semi-nomadic, relying on hunting caribou, fishing, and gathering for survival. Their spiritual beliefs honor the interconnectedness of nature, with ceremonies reinforcing their relationship to the environment. Storytelling, dance, and art are vital for passing down history and values. Today, the Gwich’in maintain their cultural identity through language, practices, and activism, notably advocating for the protection of caribou herds and traditional lands against industrial development.