Update 13, Gitxsan Grandmothers Struggle with #ChildWelfare #Poverty #Genocide

My grandson is now 22 months old, and I want to share an update on the struggles I’m facing while navigating the CFCSA process with VACFSS. It hasn’t been easy, and I feel compelled to express my concerns and offer recommendations for change.

Please forgive any grammatical errors in this message; I don’t have an editor to help me.

As you know, I’ve answered the intrusive list of questions in the email linked below. I find myself in a precarious position, feeling the weight of the system on my shoulders. I am desperate to keep my grandson from being removed and to prevent him from entering care. Canada has a troubling practice of finding any excuse to take our Aboriginal children away from their families and communities.

I know that you will do everything in your heart and power to help our children, and I want to thank you for your bravery and prayers. 

Recently, I received an email from the social worker filled with heavy questions that leave me feeling uneasy about their commitment to protecting my grandson. For instance, why is there pressure on grandparents like me to provide examples of our traditions? This feels more like an interrogation than a genuine effort to understand our family’s values and practices.

In my last update, I wrote letters to Justine Trudeau, MLA Melanie Mark, Premier Christy Clark, Carolyn Bennett, and Jody Wilson-Raybould, sharing my experiences with the oppressive CFCSA process. 

In response, I received a bureaucratic reply from Christy Clark. It’s frustrating because nowhere in my letter did I make a formal complaint. Instead, my concerns were brushed aside, and I was sent back to the Delegated Agency, VACFSS—the newest Indian Agents for Canada. 

Here’s the list of questions related to the 54.01 application in case you missed the earlier blog. The Guardians Assessment under 54.01 feels like another hurdle in a system that is already stacked against us.

I share this not only to express my sadness and frustration but also to inspire hope. We must come together to advocate for our children and push for a system that truly respects our rights and our families. We deserve better, and our children deserve to grow up in loving, supportive environments surrounded by their culture and community.

Let’s keep fighting for change and for the future of our grandchildren. Thank you for your support.

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