Inuksuk: An Ancient Symbol of Sustainability Leadership

A powerful symbol, the Inuksuk, stands as a guide to the Inuit tribe of the Canadian Arctic. Built of stones it is a messenger to those who cross the barren tundra of these lands; a signpost where food is stored or shelter can be found; a map to help arctic travelers navigate safely across the tundra, showing direction across a valley or pass or a warning marking danger up ahead - a stone structure that stands in for a human. The meaning of a specific Inuksuk is given by the person who builds it - their Intent. It can reflect balance in that each stone must be carefully chosen and positioned so as to withstand the harsh climates. Or be a focal point where messages are left upon the land communicating from one person to another across both space and time. Marking the distance from one point to another it is also used as a navigation tool. Many of the attributes that are held within the Inuksuk are true for sustainability leaders. They are clear about their own intentions before engaging themselves and others in action. They hold the balance between diverse perspectives by seeking out solutions for the collective good while managing various powerful relationships. They look for interdependent connections as a way to build communication among independent entities, producing solutions that build on one another by leveraging the resources of each. They navigate through life grounded in their own personal guidance system, their integrity. Both Inuksuit (plural) and sustainability leaders are visible to others. The arctic sky is expansive, towering over the barren north land; together they carve out the vast empty space known as the tundra. In order for the Inuksuk to be seen from a distance it must be built upon a high place, or positioned so it can be seen only from a certain vantage point. It might stand alone or with others. By taking responsibility to ensure that things happen, sustainability leaders naturally step into leadership roles. It is normal for them to create space to hold the energy and momentum for both themselves and others. They make visible the solutions necessary for lasting change to occur, learning with others and sharing insights as they unfold. Circles have been used throughout time as a visual symbol to convey a message. Their meanings are numerous yet all embody the notion of togetherness, inclusion, centering, and focus. Sometimes inuksuit are built to stand around a circle; each one unique. Together in a circle they create a bond of friendship, caring and supporting each other, multiplying their intent, and the strength of their impact on those who pass by. At the heart of Sustainability leadership is the belief in the strength of the collective, where the whole is greater than its individual members. This can been seen in the building of relationships to think holistically, in the creation of spaces to engage conversations that are authentic and that matter, and in continually noticing one’s self in relationships with others. A guide helping us steer across vast unknown terrain, altering us to dangerous crossings, providing nourishment when we are empty, encouragement when we are lost, and a sacred space in which to laugh, celebrate, and support one another- sustainability leaders stand in for us. www.ICCD.cornell.edu – www.findingthesage.comrn