Dignity in death is a simple, yet profound question many contemplate at end-of-life. For Indigenous Peoples whose traditions are rooted in ceremony, community and ancestry, finding services that deliver critical healthcare while holistically guiding the spirit onto its next journey can be difficult. Many hospice services are unequipped to incorporate cultural sensitivities into end-of-life care.
It was not just about what he said. It was also the softness of his voice, posture of humility and determination to listen that made indelible impressions on Indigenous peoples as they observed Pope Francis during his historical penitential pilgrimage to Canada from July 24-29, 2022.
Language is the heart of culture. It determines how we communicate with one another, share stories and build relationships. For Indigenous Peoples who did not have written words prior to colonization, language is how their culture and traditions survived from generation to generation. However, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has found that Indigenous languages are at risk of dying out, with 75% of those in Canada considered endangered.
Speeding might seem like a minor offence, but it’s the most common traffic violation in Canada, and one that can have deadly consequences. In school zones, residential areas, and at crosswalks, the risks are especially high. For rural communities like Alderville First Nation, the dangers are even greater, with many roads lacking sidewalks, lighting, and proper traffic enforcement.
Shared language is a key part of identity and self-belonging. For many Indigenous cultures, these ancient traditional spoken words are at risk of being lost with older generations. With many middle-aged generations culturally disconnected due to the residential school system, eyes instead are turning to the youngest in communities to break the cycle of intergenerational trauma and revitalize culture and connectedness to one another and the land.
A new life chapter begins the second a fresh-faced student walks through the doors of their post-secondary institution. Marking the shift from adolescence to adulthood, it can be incredibly daunting for young people to enter such unfamiliar territory. For Indigenous students, especially those traveling from remote communities to urban centres, the experience can be even more challenging. These students need extra support to build relationships and find their community as they adjust to university life.
Considered a cultural mosaic woven together by diverse cultures from around the world, the ethos of Canada has been founded on inclusion, openness and respect. Newcomers arrive with the hope that no matter where they come from, they will be welcomed. However, Indigenous cultures shaped these lands long before settlers arrived, whose traditions survived despite the impacts of colonization. Integrating Indigenous knowledge with educational practices for new Canadians is key in working towards reconciliation right from an individual’s first steps onto this land.
Indigenous feet have been dancing on the land for generations. A way to honour Indigenous culture and spirituality, dance is a vital part of tradition, connection and social structure within communities. In Atlantic Canada, while there are increasing opportunities for youth to learn traditional Indigenous dances, those seeking contemporary dance instruction from Indigenous teachers in jazz, hip-hop or tap are out of luck.
It’s been eight years since British Columbia declared a public health emergency to address the opioid overdose crisis. In that time, overdose deaths have tragically continued to rise, hitting marginalized communities hardest, including many Indigenous Peoples. Deep-rooted systemic racism and long-standing biases have made it harder for those who need help most to actually get the care and support they deserve.
Indigenous cultures, traditions, languages, and arts are vibrant, diverse, and rooted in deep history. Yet colonization has long distorted how Indigenous Peoples are seen, often reducing them to stereotypes or symbols of tragedy. As Dr. Cindy Blackstock has famously said, “Indigenous Peoples are only thought about when they are drumming, dancing, drunk, or dead.” This is not the story Indigenous communities have chosen for themselves.
