Contact
Community Advisors and the Collaborative Administrator are available to answer any questions, talk about your project ideas, and help you with the application.
Connect with a Community Advisor
|
“Since the beginning of our own time, the land has defined our language, culture, and way of life. There was a time in our recent history that we have been steered away from staying connected to the land. That is why, for me, being on the Land makes me whole. The Collaborative gives an opportunity for people to come together and share experiences of on the land activities.” |
|
"Being on the land is such a big part of who we are, who I am. Getting out on the land or spending time in the bush calms me. It also reminds me of the simpler things needed to be whole. The land helps to secure my identity; allows me to rest and relax; it challenges and teaches me." |
|
Eleanor Jerome - Gwich'in Region
PH: (867) 777-7922 Fax: (867) 777-7919 Email: eleanor.jerome@gwichintribal.ca "I remember each year when school was done in June, my parents, aunts, uncles, and cousins would head 40 miles up the Peel River to Road River, YT where we would spend the whole summer. Those were the best memories: picking berries, making dry fish, checking nets, boat rides, hauling water, packing wood, re-setting brush in the tents, doing laundry on a washboard, and waiting on the shores to meet canoeists paddling down the Peel. We all enjoyed bush life all summer. Unfortunately, now, that is not a common occurrence like it used to be, but I still make it out to camp when I can as I just love being out there." |
|
"Just the act of being on the land, in itself, is medicine." |
|
"We need to work together to provide solutions to promote healthy choices and wellness in our communities. The Collaborative is important because it is a way to support on the land programming for the well being of all peoples of the North. It is also a way to educate Northerners on the values we hold for our environment. The Collaborative supports the transmission of knowledge from Elders to our youth about our land, waters, history, and culture to ensure they are prepared for their roles as future stewards." |
|
"The ability to bring people closer to the land provides opportunities to access and gain knowledge in culture and heritage and promotes natural healing and wellness. The Collaborative is a unique and amazing project that supports all ages and cultures across the territory in getting on the land and builds capacity for future programs and generations." |
|
"Being on the land is an important part of my life. As Indigenous people, our identities are tied to the land. I am Sahtúgot’ı̨nę and my family's traditional area is called Tsia (Russell Bay). I know my ancestors are always with me, but when I am on the land, especially at Tsia, I feel a stronger connection to them. When we're feeling lost or troubled, we can always go on the land to reconnect and find answers. I find this to be true particularly after being in the city, or in town for too long where the load can get heavy. I need to be on the land to lighten the load. It's where I can truly be myself." |
Collaborative Administrator
|