The next series of images were taken at the Nalukataq in Barrow.
Nalukataq means "to toss it up" and is characterized by the famous
Eskimo blanket toss. It is the whaling festival of the Inupiat Eskimos
after the spring whale hunting season and takes place in June. The
Nalukataq first is a celebration of thanksgiving for success and
secondly is the first of several times when frozen whale meat or quaq
as well as whale blubber and skin or muktuk is distributed to the community.
In Eskimo culture it is highly valued to be able to produce and distribute
wealth amongst the community. Whaling captains give away large portions
of their whales and in return gain respect and stature in the community.

Part of the festival involves whaling crews distributing the catch to each family at the event.

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