Staff recently met for a Cultural Connections gathering with Elder Sidney Douglas, who shared teachings on the importance of family, identity, and belonging.
Through stories from his own life, he spoke about a time when children grew up knowing their family connections, understanding their responsibilities to one another, and finding support within their extended families and communities. One teaching was brought to life for those in the room: knowing who you are begins with knowing where you come from.
In a particularly meaningful moment, staff member Clayton Ritchie asked Elder Sid about their own family connections. Without hesitation, Elder Sid began naming relatives and explaining how their families were connected across generations. Hearing about the family connections, in the moment and through his knowledge was a powerful reminder that family is more than a family tree. It is relationship, belonging, and shared history.
For Indigenous children and families, these connections are foundational to identity and well-being. Thank you, Elder Sid, for sharing your stories, wisdom, and teachings. They continue to guide our work and remind us why family and cultural connections matter.