CULTURE AND LANGUAGE REVITALIZATION

Tipi Building Project for Urban Indigenous Youth

In today’s digital age, youth face increasing challenges, with engagement beyond cell phones and other devices often lacking.

Urban Indigenous youth in particular are vulnerable, often missing familial support and a sense of belonging. It is important to create spaces and experiences that offer them a sense of community, cultural connection, and purpose amidst these challenges.

The Red Road Healing Society in Edmonton, Alberta understands the importance of traditional activities when engaging with Indigenous youth. They have seen first-hand that children and youth find joy and fulfillment in working on projects, sharing stories, preparing and participating in feasts, and engaging in ceremonial practices. As part of their ongoing commitment to youth empowerment and cultural revitalization, the organization is planning to collaborate with Elders and youth from the community to construct a tipi, creating a sacred space for ceremonial teachings and cultural exchange. 

With funding from the IRF, Red Road is able to finance all aspects of this project, including Elder Teacher honorariums, transportation for helpers, facilitators, and ceremonial participants, as well as all building materials such as canvas, poles, and tools.

Through this project, Red Road hopes to provide urban Indigenous youth with a sense of purpose, connection, and belonging, fostering resilience and healing in the face of adversity.

“Traditionally, in the tipi, everyone is valued equally; therefore through provision of an egalitarian neighborhood environment that values everyone in the community equally; and where people practice the sacred values that provide one with the direction, guidance, knowledge and wisdom that they need in life; only then, has one the opportunity to be valued for who they are, and the ability to clearly move forward.”

  • Red Road Healing Society

Archdiocese of Edmonton

Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!