The impacts of colonization and the residential school system have left many Indigenous Peoples in need of healing. Yet, systemic systems of oppression have left many without access to critical mental health services, leading to higher rates of addiction, suicide, family instability and violence.

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.

Art has long been a vital form of expression and knowledge transmission within and between Indigenous cultures. Beadwork, sewing, and painting are traditional practices deeply connected to Indigenous identity and storytelling.

Indigenous communities have always passed down ancient traditional practices from generation to generation. Sewing, beading, and the creation of cultural clothing and regalia is an art form that helps define Indigenous Nations and Treaty territories through unique weaving patterns, colour and shapes.

Métis identity is nuanced and can be difficult to understand in the complex space of Indigeneity. Impacted by colonization and the residential school system, critical cultural knowledge, traditional skills, and community connections have been lost across generations. Métis peoples are often left behind in the push to revitalize First Nation cultures.

Indigenous Peoples have played essential roles in shaping communities through leadership, cultural knowledge, service, education, and advocacy. However, many of these contributions are not documented, leading to important stories remaining largely unrecognized outside of the communities in which they originated, and at risk of being lost to time.

The role of Indigenous women in Cree communities is sacred, honoured and vital to the harmony of a Nation. For generations, Indigenous women and girls lent their voices as Lady Back-Up Singers to share nêhiyawêwin (Cree language).

Indigenous families continue to be impacted by colonization and systemic policies focused on cultural erasure. The painful legacy of the residential school system has led to many Indigenous parents losing the skills to create healthy family units

The traditional Indigenous flute is honoured in many cultures for its calming, meditative sound and importance in traditional practices. Often blended with the sounds of the land, the rivers, rain, or wind, it connects its player with nature and their spiritual self.

The lasting impacts of colonization and the residential school system have left deep physical, emotional, and spiritual scars on Indigenous Peoples and their communities. Systemic policies have led to cultural practices, sacred connections to the land, and traditional ways of living and knowing to be lost.