Celebrating Indigenous and Inuit Peoples – Kwei!

For the second consecutive year, the Batshaw Youth and Family Centres celebrated Indigenous and Inuit peoples at their Prévost campus on May 31. As per tradition, the day began with a prayer to the Creator with a special greeting to our sister, the Sun, who was radiant at the end of last month. Following his teachings in Mohawk, the Elder gave an explanation in English explained in English so that everyone present could understand. He spoke about the importance of nature in Indigenous cultures and the role we all have in preserving it.  

More than 100 youths receiving youth protection services had the opportunity to discuss, learn and get moving while taking part in six workshops specifically organized for them. Young residents at various group homes in Montréal, including the West Montréal Readaptation Centre, came to join those residing at the Prévost campus and enjoyed an exceptional day. 

Through the workshops, they learned about making dream catchers, spoke with an Elder, took part in traditional Inuit Arm Pull strength competition, learned how to light a fire without matches, and got moving by playing lacrosse. 

The 12 information booths there to teach everyone about the services provided by community partners—including Camp Weredale, C.A.R.E. Jeunesse, Portage, the work-study program, and others—were very busy, and showed the circle of care that exists to support the well-being of our youth.

A traditional barbecue, which brought together the youths and the day’s invited guests, was an opportunity for everyone to mingle. A throat singing duo added to the evening, and a number of girls agreed to take part, with success, in this vocal game.   

Throughout the day, youths were given coupons to highlight their participation, their kindness, or their accomplishments, and at the end of the day, there was a prize draw. Participants were greeted with shouts of joy as winners received gift cards and beautiful blankets with Indigenous motifs. Between drawings, the workshop leaders were given small, hand-decorated wooden boxes that contained a variety of plants from the greenhouse and maple syrup produced by the youths this year. 

This very successful day was organized by Laurie-Ann Meyer, Rochelle Lazarus, and Sam Barile, clinical activity specialists with the Youth Program Directorate, with assistance from a number of colleagues at the Prévost campus. Congratulations and thank you!