If you’ve been tossing and turning at night, struggling to find your inner peace, you are far from alone.
Recent weeks have been particularly challenging for many, especially those with Greenlandic roots living in Denmark. Julie Rademacher, spokesperson for Uagut – the national organization for Greenlanders in Denmark, sheds light on the rising anxiety within this community.
“I’ve heard from people whose family members are experiencing anxiety attacks, and many are having trouble sleeping,” she shares. In fact, a common question among Greenlanders last week was simply, “How much sleep have you managed to get?” It’s a stark reflection of the toll that recent events have taken on mental health.
Rademacher and her dedicated team of volunteers have felt a pressing need to provide crisis support and facilitate discussions surrounding the unsettling threats faced by both Greenland and Denmark. In response, Uagut is collaborating with De Grønlandske Huse in Denmark, the authorities in both regions, and organizations such as UNICEF, Headspace, and Save the Children. Together, they are seeking funding to mount a coordinated response to address these concerns.
“We are in this together,” Rademacher emphasizes, “and it’s crucial that we streamline efforts between Greenland and Denmark to avoid redundancy. Our goal is to foster efficiency and instill a sense of security during this tumultuous period.”
One key aspect of this initiative is the provision of free crisis support. “There’s a palpable need for it,” Rademacher notes. “We’ve received numerous inquiries from individuals who are worried and, in some cases, scared. That’s why we’re launching a comprehensive effort to provide materials with advice, guidance, and psychological support, particularly for helping parents communicate with their children about these challenging times.”
Material is Ready – Funding Needed
Uagut is actively seeking sponsorship to print pamphlets that will outline available crisis support and associated activities. These materials will be distributed throughout Greenland and major cities in Denmark and will also be accessible on the Uagut website.
Moreover, Rademacher highlights the necessity of an information campaign focused on crisis support, aiming to utilize both television and social media. “We also need to allocate resources for physical gatherings,” she insists. “We need to step away from screens and social media and come together in a spirit of hygge.”
When asked about her own well-being amid the current climate, Rademacher reflects, “This feels like a terrible movie, a nightmare I can’t seem to shake. But I’m resolute that fear will not dictate my life. We must not let fear win. That’s exactly what they want, referring to the Trump administration.”
Grateful for Demonstration Support
Just last weekend, Uagut organized a significant demonstration in Copenhagen to express solidarity with Greenland and voice opposition to President Trump’s remarks about seeking control over the territory. Similar events took place in Odense, Aarhus, and Aalborg, drawing thousands of demonstrators eager to show their backing for Greenland.
In a statement of gratitude, Uagut acknowledged this overwhelming support. “We demonstrated to the world that there’s far more at stake than transient geopolitical interests. It’s about people’s right to determine their futures,” Rademacher asserted.
According to Rademacher, the immense pressure on Greenland has fortuitously strengthened the bond between Denmark and Greenland. “Amid the chaos, one beautiful outcome has emerged: Greenlanders and Danes have grown closer than we’ve been in years. It’s heartening to witness, and it’s a connection we must nurture and deepen.”
For individuals in Greenland, especially children and young people who need someone to talk to, help is available through Tusaannga at 80 11 80.