"Nunarput Utoqqarsuanngoravit", "Nuna Asiilasooq" or a brand new national anthem? Members of Inatsisartut discussed that question on Wednesday.
Aqqalu Jeremiassen (A) is behind a proposal for an inquiry debate. He believes that one official national anthem is enough.
Dialects
And there is plenty to debate when it comes to songs. Aki-Matilda Høegh-Dam (N) believes that it can also be an opportunity to let dialects be included in the national anthem. The proposer's party colleague, Bentiaraq Ottosen (A) agrees with that interpretation and believes that it can clearly be debated. However, he has a clear favorite if he could decide the national anthem himself.
- I really like Nuna Asiilasooq, says Bentiaraq Ottosen.
But he also emphasizes that the other national anthem, "Nunarput Utoqqarsuanngoravit", often serves as a rallying point at sporting events.
"Ajjajjaa"
Mette Arqe Hammeken (N) suggested that a national anthem does not only have to be a song, but can also contain a hum. She then starts humming in the hall. This surprises the chairman of the Inatsisartut meeting, Per Berthelsen (D).
- It's incredible how beautifully you sing, he says.
According to the Democratic Party's spokesperson, Pipaluk Olsen, they are open to all ideas. Regardless of whether it's dialects or humming.
The youngest: This is the first time I've heard it
The youngest member of Inatsisartut, Nivi Rosing (IA), admits that she first came across "Nuna Asiilasooq" when she read about the proposal.
- If I'm being completely honest, this is the first time I've heard "Nuna Asiilasooq". I grew up with "Nunarput Utoqqarsuanngoravit" being the only national anthem, says Nivi Rosing.
Her party colleague Mimi Karlsen (IA) believes that the issue should not only be discussed by Inatsisartut.
- It is very important that it is not only Inatsisartut, but also the population that takes a position on this. I see it as an opportunity to call a referendum, she says.
Siumut: Include it in the constitution
Siumut's rapporteur, Erik Jensen, wants the topic to be discussed more. Therefore, he wants the issue of national anthems to be discussed together with the draft constitution.
- In connection with the work on a constitution, this topic should also be discussed. And citizens should be involved in this process, he says.
Will the matter proceed?
It is unclear whether this inquiry debate will lead to further work. According to Naalakkersuisut's information, this week's debate on national anthems is the ninth of its kind since 1979. And the previous debates have usually not led to tangible changes. Several parties now want Naalakkersuisut to act on the basis of the debate.
