Where am I Going?

The tiny voices of Indigenous children have echoed across the land for thousands of years. Yet, over the last few centuries they’ve grown quieter due to the intergenerational impacts of colonialism and systemic oppression.

Policies such as the residential school system, the sixties scoop, and ongoing child welfare involvement have severed cultural and familial connections. This has culminated in an overrepresentation of Indigenous youth in the child welfare system across Canada, particularly in Alberta, despite Indigenous children representing a much smaller share of the overall child population in the province. 

Every child deserves the opportunity to explore four foundational questions throughout their life: Where do I come from? Where am I going? Why am I here? Who am I? This is especially important for young Indigenous Peoples whose reconnection with their traditional teachings, languages, and ways of knowing is an important step in helping them move forward in a meaningful, confident way. 

That is why Hull Services in Calgary is introducing a two-year Indigenous Traditional Grandmother and Grandfather Teachings Project that will provide bi-weekly teachings led by Elders and Cultural Facilitators. Youth will gather and engage in traditional learning year-round, and have access to materials that incorporate Cree, Blackfoot, and Saulteaux languages. These lessons will bolster the cultural importance of land-based teachings and reinforce identity, belonging, and connection. 

The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is honoured to lend its hands to help young people reconnect with their roots in a safe environment. Helping vulnerable youth rebuild their sense of belonging is a worthy pursuit and is critical to building pride in one’s Indigeneity. The IRF’s funding will enhance Hull Services’ ability to guide young people through this project while fostering meaningful relationships with Elders, families, and community.

Diocese of Calgary