Laws of Matriarch

My beautiful granddaughter celebrated her second birthday this week. She has been in the care of the ministry for an extended period, and I was informed that my nephew (not her father) decided to give up his rights in November. This prompted me to begin the application process in December 2018 to try to bring her home and out of care. Like many of our children, she has been separated from her family and community, which complicates efforts to reconnect her with her roots and the extended family who love her.  Below is my letter to the political parties regarding the urgent need to address this issue: --- I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the ongoing removal of our Indigenous children from their families and communities and the role of delegated agencies in this process. As a Gitxsan person, I understand the profound impact that these separations have on our children, families, and culture. Our children belong with us, surrounded by their families and the traditions...

I’ve moved back home a few times, and each time I found myself back in Vancouver. I think a lot of people trying to make it here in Vancouver face similar struggles with transitioning. I’m thinking about starting a project that mirrors those immigrant settlement programs, the ones that offer help with temporary housing, financial support, and access to social services. Transitioning can be tough for everyone, and sometimes we need those opportunities to help us get by and thrive. We all deserve support as we navigate these changes in our lives. In addition to the challenges faced by immigrants, it's important to recognize the unique and often dire circumstances that refugees endure. Many refugees arrive in Canada fleeing from regions where they have experienced or witnessed horrific acts of violence, oppression, and even genocide. They escape persecution, conflict, and systemic atrocities in search of safety and a chance to rebuild their lives.  For instance, the ongoing conflict ...

I just had my last lesson come through, and it’s hitting me hard. It sounds so obvious, but it’s one of those clichés that I’ve never liked; things like "they see themselves in you," "they’re just jealous," "bullies are controlling," and "good and evil are the same." But now, the dots are finally connecting. I’ve faced bullying from my own siblings, and I know I’ve said some pretty hurtful things to my loved ones when I’m in that fight mode. When I’m in fight or flight, fear takes over, usually triggered by anger or hatred. I’m overly sensitive to everything around me; I can feel everyone’s emotions, even their first thoughts, and sometimes I can sense what substances they might be using. We mirror ourselves in others, and when we see ourselves in someone else, sometimes it brings up fear. Growing up, I witnessed a lot of horror and terror in my community and at home. I learned to become invisible, or else risk facing violence myself. But this mo...