The Impacts of this Work
"This work is so valuable. Hearing first hand the stories and teachings of the Elders presented with humour and forgiveness was unforgettable and moving. I hope this group continues with this amazing work to help educate and transform our society."
"This was one of the most powerful and impactful workshops I have ever attended. I was humbled by the courage and honesty of the Elders to share and educate. The information is offered in a way that does not blame but asks how can we heal this?"
Opening Hearts and Minds
With a far reach and deep impact, outcomes of the Elders’ work ripple community-wide like many stones thrown in the water:
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20,000 + people from across the Cowichan region and beyond, have been reached, including politicians, students, librarians, hospital staff and RCMP.
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Participants describe their experience as ‘life changing’, ‘transformative’ and ‘deeply impactful’.
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Elders’ personal stories change perceptions and attitudes. Months and years later participants continue to feel the impacts, changing personal biases, assumptions, judgments, and behaviours.
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Participants take action in their personal and professional spheres to change systems, decolonize hiring policies, and support Indigenous leaders.
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Indigenous students at SD 79 experience less racism and greater tolerance because teachers, staff and students learn cultural teachings and truth of history.
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A new generation of student teachers is graduating from VIU with broadened worldviews.
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Cultural teachings, values, perspectives and the role of ‘Elder’ are uplifted in both First Nations and non-First Nations communities.
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Municipal and Cowichan Tribes leaders are strengthening relationships, standing together on issues like racism and working as a community of communities.