EmpowerRoots – Resources for educators to help Indigenous youth thrive

Indigenous communities face significant mental health challenges, many of which are deeply tied to the lasting effects of colonialism.

Intergenerational trauma, poverty, unemployment, and housing insecurity have created an environment where mental health struggles are prevalent. During the COVID-19 pandemic, 1 in 5 Indigenous adults reported mental health issues – double the rate of non-Indigenous adults. 

In response to these alarming statistics, educators are looking for ways to support Indigenous students and provide them with the tools to thrive. Indigenous youth need to learn that they have value and that they can overcome harmful stereotypes and societal barriers.

Signal Hill Education Society is stepping up to meet this need through the development of EmpowerRoots: Indigenous Intrinsic Worth Educational Initiative. Working closely with Indigenous educator Jacqueline Bay and in consultation with Indigenous Elders and communities, Signal Hill will be creating free materials and resources for educators designed to help Indigenous students understand their intrinsic value. 

Thanks to funding from the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF), Signal Hill will be able to cover salaries, contractor fees and associated costs to develop the program and help Indigenous youth build a foundation of self-worth and leadership that will carry them into the future.

Archdiocese of Vancouver