The primary purpose of the ”We Are Better Together” program was to address some of the major issues stemming from the impacts of Indian Residential School, such as; loss of language, culture, family structure, and disconnection from the land. Okanagan language, traditional knowledge building, and food preparation workshops were held seasonally throughout the year while also incorporating cultural identity, self-esteem/expression and self-awareness. Participants learned traditional territory locations, kokanne and trout fishing, berry picking, tea and medicine gathering. The program also included a “Calling Our Spirits Home – Healing Walk” from Kamloops Indian Residential School to the communities of Quilchena and Spahomin as a way of enriching solidarity and healing as a community. High interest and attendance of these workshops and the walk confirm this programming is needed and has direct beneficial impacts on individuals, families and community.
British Columbia
Organization
Posted on December 3, 2019