6 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
SUPPLEMENT TO THE FREE PRESS • SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 28, 2024
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“Jordan’s Principle is just one element of the work that needs to be done, but it’s a chance for us to make a difference. We can support our kids and change our path. I wish other nations all the best because our kids are relying on us to be successful”
Pamela Kent, — Director of Jordan’s Principle
Community healing focuses on the entire family such as a traditional sweat lodge ceremony.
“I also see young mothers and young men dealing with trauma who are now getting the opportunity to sit in ceremony, to sit in a sweat lodge, to learn drums, to learn how to sing songs, to understand the language. That’s part of what we do in Brokenhead Ojibway Nation in regards to the Jordan’s Principle program.” Looking ahead, Kent hopes to also see other First Nations thrive through Jordan’s Principle. “Jordan’s Principle is just one element of the work that needs to be done, but it’s a chance for us to make a difference. We can support our kids and change our path. I wish other nations all the best because our kids are relying on us to be successful,” Kent said. “I feel that for Canada to reconcile with our nation, they need to support Indigenous children without being taken to court. We shouldn’t have to fight for our children to get the support they need. If they want to reconcile, support us.” Similarly, Chief Bluesky is heartened to see his community working hard to heal from the inside — and he encourages the outside world to ponder what their role is in the process. “When people ask what reconciliation means to me, I think that’s a question they need to ask themselves. What do you give? What’s your point of view? What are you thinking about?” he asked. “Those are things that need to be communicated. I don’t think the burden of reconciliation should be on our shoulders.”
Mothers Day Event 2024. Honoring our Mothers. Ballantyne Family. PHOTOS SUPPLIED
STRENGTH IN TRUTH CINUP has been developed over decades of consultation with Indigenous businesses and communities to provide benefits that align with their traditional and modern needs. It is our culture to treat each other and our clients with respect and in collaboration so together, we meet the needs of organizations, plan members and communities. COMMUNITY IN RECONCILIATION The plan is proudly administered by Johnston Group, which is committed to providing a culturally safe work environment. The CINUP team has developed a Truth & Reconciliation - Calls to Action committee to develop a sustainable action plan that supports the TRC- calls to action through inclusion & employment, education, community responsibility, youth empowerment, and business partnerships.
Growing circles, building leadership At the University of Manitoba, Indigenous students are empowered to lead with confidence, culture and community. The Bison Spirit Indigenous Leadership Program introduces new students to leadership through cultural connections, team-building activities and professional development workshops. For those further along in their university journey, the Indigenous Circle of Empowerment (ICE) provides opportunities to learn from respected Indigenous leaders, engage in advanced skill-building and collaborate on community-driven projects. Made possible through the generous support of the Mastercard Foundation’s EleV program, ICE and Bison Spirit take place in Indigenous-centered, identity-affirming environments, where Indigenous ways of knowing and being shape the leaders of tomorrow.
CINUP proudly partners with over 350 First Nations and Inuit communities and organizations across Canada to provide health, dental, and mental health benefits.
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