Life is Beautiful

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. They are not defined by trauma, but by strength. Indigenous Peoples are survivors and warriors, steadfast in their commitment to healing, reclaiming their identities, and living well, on their own terms.

When individuals have a healthy sense of identity, connection, purpose and place, they have the building blocks needed to better handle difficult times in their lives. The Feather Carriers: Leadership for Life Promotion, was founded in response to the epidemic of suicide in Indigenous communities. Since 2015, they’ve held year-long training circles providing participants with traditional and modern teachings focused on life promotion. As national demand for this training has increased, Feather Carriers is expanding its Gashkichigejig Miikogi (Healthy Growth of the Teachers) program to host regular training and development sessions to continue spreading life promotion teachings and certifying life promotion teachers across the country.  

The resurgence of Life Promotion programs in Indigenous communities highlights the powerful impact of culturally grounded approaches to mental health and suicide prevention. With a significant three-year investment from the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF), more individuals will be trained as Life Promotion teachers. These are leaders who begin by applying the teachings in their own lives. This personal connection allows them to share knowledge in meaningful, authentic ways, helping to break the cycle of trauma and support others on their healing journey.

Archdiocese of Toronto – Toronto/GTA/Simcoe Muskoka