Modern Life and Traditional Ways

Because of its relative isolation from other regional hubs in Alaska (Sivuqaq is approximately 200 air miiles northwest of Nome) Gambell has maintained a degree of cultural autonomy and identity as a traditional subsistence community. Unlike many native communities in Alaska today, Gambell resident still speak their indigenous language Siberian Yupik and many of my current students still speak it in the community and at home. Gambell, however, does struggle with many issue related to influences from the outside world. The introduction of satellite technology in the 1980's and the increasing frequency of air travel and transport (there are currently three daily flights in arriving in Gambell from Nome from several air carries that provide supplies and transportation) have given residents the opportunity to suppliment their subsistence diet with store-bought goods as seen at one of the two general stores here in Gambell. Many elders speak of the loss of some traditional knowledge and an increasing reliance upon goods and services from the outside world. Most residents, however, find a balance between traditional and modern lifestyles. Seen here at the bingo hall, the Atuk, or Yupik dancing, is a bi-weekly community event in which elders call out the "old" stories to the beat of walrus gut drums while dancers act out in form. Dress is another important element of Yupik culture here as seen in this picutre of a young Yupik girl dressed in the traditional Kuspuk or Eskimo woman's dress. The three-year-old boy on the scooter wears a traditional parka with wolverine fur ruff. Note the improvised plywood surface. Other than the air field tarmac,these are the only improved surfaces suitable for bicycles or scooters.