A visit with a message: Solidarity and support to IMAK and the people of Greenland
Magnus Jonsson, President of the Icelandic Teachers Federation and Education International General Secretary David Edwards, undertook a solidarity mission to Greenland from September 17 – 19, to bring support from EI members and learn about the important work of IMAK, the Greenlandic Teachers Union.
The following is an excerpt by Jonsson of his experience and a strong message for Greenland and education unions everywhere:
"Over the past two days, we have had the privilege of visiting Greenland and meeting the remarkable colleagues of IMAK, the teacher union of this proud and resilient nation. We return inspired and filled with admiration for the work being done here for the children of Greenland and for the future of society. The people of Greenland are strongminded, ambitious, and deeply connected to both their history and their future. That spirit shines through in the work of IMAK and in every teacher we have met. You are not only shaping classrooms—you are shaping a country, a people, and a future where education is the heart of democracy, equality, and opportunity."
"Teachers everywhere carry a heavy responsibility, but in Greenland it takes on an even greater dimension. Here, teachers are not just transmitters of knowledge. They are wisdom workers, guardians of language, culture, and identity. They are mentors who guide children through the challenges of modern life while grounding them in the richness of Greenlandic traditions. Nation builders, helping every child believe in their own strength and in the promise of their homeland.
IMAK is a strong union, a beacon of professionalism and vision, giving teachers the strength to demand what is right: respect for the profession, fair conditions, and the resources needed to ensure every child in Greenland receives quality education. These are not small demands; they are the foundation of society. A nation that invests in its teachers invests in its future."
We also want to thank you for the extraordinary reception you offered us, we felt not only welcomed but embraced, as colleagues and friends. The warmth and sincerity of your hospitality reflected the values that define Greenlanders: courage, generosity, and determination to move forward together.
To the wisdom workers of Greenland: your voice is important, your struggle is just, and your mission is noble. You do not stand alone. Education International, the international community of educators recognizes you, admires you, and stands beside you and you can read their solidarity statement here.
Thank you, IMAK. Thank you, Greenlandic teachers for showing the world what it means to be ambitious, strongminded, and unwavering in your commitment to the children of Greenland.
Atuartut pillugit ataatsimoorluta – Together for the children of Greenland!
In an expression of solidarity, some EI member organizations, upon learning of the mission spontaneously sent their messages of support to IMAK and as we receive others we will post them here.
Laures Park, Chair of the Education International Indigenous Peoples Advisory Body and winner of the Mary Hatwood-Futrell Award at the 2024 World Congress:
Tena koutou nga whanaunga o Greenland.
Kai mau, kia u ki o koutou whenua, o koutou reo me o koutou tikanga.
To our relatives in Greenland.
Hold fast to your land, your language, and your culture.
Invaders have tried for years to remove that which is dear to your survival, but you have always stood up and fought back just as your tipuna (ancestors) did in years past.
The enemy can be close (as our government is) or threatening from afar but be aware that your Indigenous whanau from around the world, always stand beside you in peace and in whawhai (fight).
Ma tou Atua hei manaakitanga hei tiaki ia koutou i tenei wa.
May your Gods care and support you all at this time.
Nga mihi
Laures Park
You can download support statements from Education International and our members clicking on the following links:
Education International's Message of Solidarity and Support to IMAK and the People of Greenland
The Education International Latin American Regional Committee
