Atassuts Aqqalu C. Jerimiassen believes that there is a need to
get defined which of the country's two national anthems, ”Nunarput
utoqkarsuanngoravit" and "Nuna asiilasooq", who will officially represent us
as a country. Alternatively, have a new song made in which the country's different languages and
the main dialects are included.
In a response note from the Greenlandic Government, which has become publicly available ahead of the inquiry debate, which has been postponed to the spring session of the Greenland Parliament, it is acknowledged that it may be experienced as “confusing” for the population that two national anthems exist today.
The uncertainty
"This dual status can create uncertainty about which song should be used at official events, national anniversaries or international representations. A national anthem should also be learned by children early and by heart, as it functions as an important symbol of community and national identity," the response note states.
Since this is an emotional issue, the Government of Greenland believes that "it requires thorough information, dialogue with relevant associations and involvement of the population" before making a decision, as it must have broad popular support.
Referendum
"A solution could be to hold a referendum, where the population would have the opportunity to choose between the two existing national anthems - or possibly point to a completely new song as a common national anthem. Such a process would ensure democratic legitimacy and give the population an active role in a decision that has great symbolic significance for the country's identity and for nation building," states Naalakkersuisut in the response note.
The question of creating a completely new national anthem is being received with interest by the Greenlandic government.
“The proposal for a song that includes several of the country's languages and main dialects of the Greenlandic language is inspiring and testifies to a desire for inclusion and community,” it says.
The two songs
“Nunarput utoqqarsuanngoravit” was written by Henrik Lund and composed by Jonathan Petersen and came into use as the national anthem back in 1916. Originally, “Nunarput utoqqarsuanngoravit” had the Swedish national anthem “Du gamla, du fria, du fjällhöga Nord” as its melody. Later, Jonathan Petersen added the melody. “Nunaasiilasooq” was written and composed by Jonathan Petersen and has been used as the national anthem since 1979.
