4 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
SUPPLEMENT TO THE FREE PRESS • SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2023
>> CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3
It is clear that action is needed. The unique CMHV & KC matriarchal structured organization is based upon a historical Indigenous governance model of Grandmother Councils and Clan Mother Systems. The goal of the organization is to return to original roots as leaders who will tackle some of the biggest challenges facing our community. From environmental issues to human trafficking and sex slavery, Indigenous women are reclaiming their strength through an inherent original design in a modern world by revisiting and further developing holistic solutions. The concept of Clan Mothers Healing Village was born 18 years ago from the co-founders of CMHV & KC. They embrace Indigenous land-based healing gatherings for women, organized in rural Manitoba by Grandmothers Turtle Lodge. Clan Mothers has learned that in order to understand individual trauma, it is important to acknowledge the context in which the trauma occurred: family, culture, community. There is a need to see individuals within a historical context that continues to live in the present “soul wound.” This soul wound has become the legacy of our intergenerational trauma. Clan Mothers believes that healing is only possible when we return to our Indigenous models and methodologies of healing. The long-term business and development plan for CMHV & KC includes living quarters, meeting and healing spaces, and social enterprise facilities. But the focus is to get the women on the land as soon as possible — so that the healing can start immediately. The CMHV & KC leaders have over 30 years of experience working with women and girls (alongside the government), making systemic changes. Their experience began with Grandmother Moon Lodge, which ran successfully for 18 years. This group of leaders is ready to expand its proven healing programming to serve a larger community.
Clan Mothers Healing Village Artist’s Rendition
D
E
Knowledge Centre
A
Central Courtyard
B
C
A
C
Outdoor Kitchen and Garden
Lodge Keeper
D
B
E
Housing
F
Year-round Yurts
F
G
Healing Rooms
H
Small Ceremony Circle
G
H
During the many years that Clan Mothers offered
land-based Indigenous teachings. It became evident that living within a supportive community enhances opportunities for sexually exploited women to learn from those who have recovered.
Back row (left to right): Unci Beverly Little Thunder, Elder Levina Brown, Elder Mary Bryan; Elder Billie Schibler Front row (left to right): Elder Belinda Vandenbroeck; Elder Mae Louise Campbell
The concept of community and relationship holds significant meaning in the Indigenous way of life, and when it comes to healing, the importance of a community identity needs to be recognized. During the many years that Clan Mothers offered land-based Indigenous teachings, it became evident that living within a supportive community enhances opportunities for sexually exploited women to learn from those who have recovered. The interaction provides positive role models and inspires both hope and healing. As women in recovery experience nurturing in the community, they begin to participate in daily tasks and operations. They develop a sense of positive self-worth, recognizing their intrinsic value through active participation and contributing with meaning and purpose. Transitioning from the Village into independence will be supported with relationships, made smoother with training and skill development, and monitored by Clan Mothers’ programs in the city. Clan Mothers will be working alongside other successful agencies to envelop the women with a community of support.
SUSTAINABILITY IS KEY TO CLAN MOTHERS HEALING VILLAGE The site is comprised of a mix of wooded lands, native grasses and natural water sites. It’s ideal to host outdoors activities and programming elements. Extracting Indigenous medicines from this organic site will be essential to the sustainable plan. Clan Mothers will develop the site with sustainablity in mind. Getting back to land-based traditions, growing and sourcing local foods is a priority to reteach traditional practices. The kitchen garden will be a key aspect of respecting keeping in tune with the land. The outdoor elements of nature are integral to the site’s primary function. That is where the healing happens.” Jamie Goulet, — Co-Founder of Clan Mothers Healing Village
>> CONTINUED ON PAGE 6
SUPPLIED PHOTOS
Powered by FlippingBook