The Link Between Gender-Based Violence and Homelessness 

March 8 is International Women’s Day, and this year’s theme, “Accelerating Actions for Gender Equality,” encourages us to address the inequalities that women face daily. 

One of the issues is violence with approximately 30% of women worldwide experiencing physical and/or sexual intimate violence at least once in their lives (World Health Organization) [1]. This violence causes physical, emotional and financial harm. 

One of the most heartbreaking outcomes of gender-based violence is the high percentage of women in shelters. Many women are forced to leave their homes due to abusive partners, often fleeing with their children and nothing else leading to financial instability and difficulty securing new housing. Studies show up to 25% of women experiencing homelessness in Canada cite domestic violence as the immediate cause of their homelessness [2]. 

Accelerating Actions for Gender Equality 

Here are some of the amazing local organizations working to support and celebrate women while accelerating actions for gender equality including addressing root causes. We encourage you to learn more by following the links:   

1. Elizabeth Fry Society of Northern Alberta:

This incredible organization provides essential support to individuals, especially women, who are in contact with the legal system. Shirley’s Place, operated by the Elizabeth Fry Society of Northern Alberta and supported by Homeward Trust Edmonton, offers temporary supportive housing for women experiencing homelessness and transitioning from shelters. 

To support the Elizabeth Fry Society of Northern Alberta, you can volunteer, join the annual membership for $5 for individuals and $10 for organizations, donate, or if you’re a lawyer, get involved with the Independent Legal Advice for Survivors of Sexual Violence (ILA) project, which is currently recruiting and training lawyers in Fort McMurray and Northern Alberta. Contact ILA at 780.784.2213 or legal_advice@efryedmonton.ab.ca for more information.

2. Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women (IAAW):

IAAW is dedicated to supporting and advocating for Indigenous women, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs addressed. In partnership with Homeward Trust Edmonton, IAAW leases a 20-suite apartment building for the Women’s Fire Lodge, which provides short-term housing solutions for Indigenous women leaving correctional facilities or experiencing homelessness. The Esquao Awards, hosted by IAAW, celebrate the achievements of Indigenous women in the community. “Esquao” is a Cree word for woman.  

Becoming an Esquao member by paying a membership fee of $25 is a great way to support this organization. While the standard membership fee is $25, a subsidized rate of $10 is available for those with fixed or limited incomes. Additionally, if you’re unable to afford the membership fee but still want to participate in Esquao programs and events, the fee can be waived. 

3. Radius Community Health & Healing:

The Pregnancy Pathway service offered by Radius Community Health & Healing supports pregnant women experiencing homelessness or facing serious housing situations. In collaboration with Homeward Trust Edmonton, the Pregnancy Pathways Home was created. This initiative, supported by various community partners, provides women with their own dedicated apartment, 24/7 staffing, on-site supports, pre-natal and post-natal care, a gathering space to build community and foster peer support, and assistance in developing life and parenting skills. Radius Community Health & Healing welcomes donations to support their essential services such as the Pregnancy Pathway. Additionally, you can visit the website to explore any available volunteer opportunities.  

4. Adeara Recovery Centre:

This addiction recovery centre supports women and children through various stages of recovery. Their mission is to empower and equip women to achieve sustainable recovery through hope, healing, and restoration by offering long-term, faith-based programming, counseling, and life skills support. Adeara hosts three major fundraising events each year: the Coldest Night of the Year, the Adeara Golf Tournament, and the Evening of Dreams Gala. You can support these events by volunteering, sponsoring, or donating. 

5. Boyle Street Community Services:

Boyle Street and The Gather Co. have partnered to create sakihta kikinaw (Cree for “house of love”) at Stovel Block, a safe and supportive housing initiative for female-identifying¹ people. Supported by Homeward Trust Edmonton, this flexible, low-cost housing provides a warm and welcoming space for women to stay as long as needed before moving into long-term housing, with on-site staff and programs available 24/7. In response to the pandemic’s escalation of housing insecurity, sakihta kikinaw aims to fill a critical gap in safe housing options for women.

You can support Boyle Street Community Services by donating.

This International Women’s Day let’s work hard to accelerate actions for gender equality by addressing gender-based violence and its impact on homelessness. By taking steps to support survivors, we can create a world where women are safe, and inequality is a thing of the past. 

Happy International Women’s Day! 

Sources 

[1] World Health Organization. (2024). Violence against women. who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/violence-against-women

[2] Learning Network. (2017). Women, Intimate Partner Violence, and Homelessness (Issue 22). Centre for Reasearch and Education on Violence Against Women and Children, Western University. gbvlearningnetwork.ca/our-work/issuebased_newsletters/issue-22/index.html

Footnote 

1. We use “female-identifying” and “women” in relation to include all people who identify as female, including but not limited to cisgender and transgender women. ↩︎

The Housing Supports Forum ran June 12 to 14, 2024, in Edmonton, Alberta, hosted by Homeward Trust Edmonton and sponsored by 7 Cities.

Since 2001, Alberta’s 7 Cities on Housing and Homelessness (7 Cities) has been working to achieve the shared goal of ending homelessness across our province. These 7 cities include the following groups: Calgary Homeless Foundation​, City of Grande Prairie, City of Lethbridge​, Homeward Trust Edmonton, Medicine Hat Community Housing Society​, City of Red Deer, and Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo​.
 
The Housing Supports Forum provides an opportunity for the sector to come together to promote collaboration and innovation within the homeless-serving sector.

Read the Housing Supports Forum 2024 Summary below. Here is a recap of some of the forum sessions: 

Day One: Wednesday, Jun 12, 2024 – A Focus on Collaboration and Community. 

Quality Improvement Technical Training, Built For Zero

Speakers:  
Marie Morrison (Built for Zero, CAEH)  
Lori Richer (Bult for Zero, CAEH) 

Speakers Marie Morrison and Lori Richer led a session focusing on Edmonton’s adoption of the Built for Zero (BFZ) strategy, spearheaded by the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness (CAEH). The BFZ initiative aims to tackle chronic and veteran homelessness through collaborative community efforts. During this training, Built for Zero emphasized the importance of change management and quality improvement approaches, focusing on the tools and discipline needed for success. Participants, including program practitioners and leaders, learned how to implement the PDSA (Plan-Do-Study-Act) approach in their work.  

Day Two: Thursday, June 13, 2024 – Panels, Panels, Panels and More Panels! 

Navigation And Support Centre, Government Of Alberta, and Seniors, Community And Social Services (SCSS)

Speakers:  
Robyn Cochrane (Executive Director, Seniors, Community And Social Services (SCSS)) 
Christa Gilroy (Manager, Seniors, Community And Social Services (SCSS)) 

The Navigation and Supports Centre exemplifies an initiative-taking approach to addressing homelessness through integrated services and community collaboration while highlighting persistent challenges and necessary improvements within homelessness support frameworks. Christa Gilroy and Robyn Cochrane discussed the Edmonton Encampment Navigation Support Centre, which provided essential services to individuals experiencing homelessness, such as shelter navigation and medical support. The government of Alberta highlighted the center’s partnerships with organizations like Hope Mission and Alberta Health Services (AHS) Mental Health and Addictions.

Bridge Housing Panel: Role & Place Within Homeless Serving System, NiGiNan Housing Venutres, Boyle Street Community Services and Homeward Trust Edmonton

Speakers:  
Jake Ramer (Homeward Trust – Jockey Dorms)  
Beth Muller (Boyle St Community Serviced – Sandy’s Place)  
Tiana Machado (NiGiNan Housing Ventured – Pimatsiwin)  
 
The Bridge Housing Panel explored temporary accommodation solutions for individuals experiencing homelessness, featuring programs like Sandy’s Place, Jockey Dorms,  and Pimatsiwin. The session discussed the role of bridge housing in providing stability and support while individuals transition to permanent housing solutions. Discussions highlighted the importance of cultural support, referral processes, and operational funding in bridge housing models.  

Measuring Housing Insecurity, Rural Development Network

Speakers: 
Lisa Belanger (CEO, Rural Development Network) 
Linda Bernicki (Director of Community Development and Indigenous Engagement, Rural Development Network) 
Sydney Steneked (Director of Homelessness Initiatives, Rural Development Network) 

This session, hosted by the Rural Development Network, focused on measuring housing insecurity, particularly in rural Alberta. The speakers discussed various methodologies and initiatives to address the housing and homelessness crisis. They highlighted the challenges faced in implementing the Point-in-Time (PiT) methodology, especially in rural areas where homelessness is less visible but equally pressing.  

Evolving Responsibilities & Expectations in Governance of System Planning Organizations, Homeward Trust Edmonton

Speakers:  
Susan McGee (CEO, Homeward Trust Edmonton) 

The session, led by Susan McGee, the CEO of Homeward Trust Edmonton, focused on the evolving responsibilities and expectations in the governance of system planning organizations. The session offered valuable insights into the complexities of governance within these organizations and highlighted the need for continued adaptation to meet the evolving needs of communities in Alberta. 

Recruitment Engagement with Landlords, Leston Holdings, and Homeward Trust Edmonton

Speakers: 
Lynsey Masson (Leston Holdings, Edmonton) 
Kayla Ross (Leston Holdings, Edmonton)  
Jim Fowler (Homeward Trust Edmonton) 
Cam Branson (Homeward Trust Edmonton) 

The Homeward Trust Edmonton Landlord Relations Team hosted an interactive discussion with Edmonton area landlords to improve landlord engagement and gather tips for supporting tenants. The session emphasized realistic timelines, effective communication, and dispelling myths associated with program-supported tenants.  

Healthcare Panel – Approached Within Homeless-Service Providers, The Alex Community Health Centre, Calgary, Street Connect, Red Deer, and Bridge Healing Jasper Place Wellness Centre

Speakers:  
Steve Richardson (The Alex Community Health Centre, Calgary) 
Amanda Chamberlain (Street Connect, Red Deer) 
Chantel Jackson (Bridge Healing Jasper Place Wellness Centre (JPWC)) 

The healthcare panel described healthcare connections and service pathways for people at risk of, experiencing, or with recent experience of homelessness. Sessions provided a practical lens to ease connections to healthcare services, contrasted medical case management vs. Housing case management, and decided the most suitable housing programs and facilities for individuals with ongoing medical needs.  

Engagement & Leadership in a Municipal Context, Canadian Mental Health Association, The City Of Red Deer, And Lived Expertise Committee

Speakers:  
Tammy Rogers (Housing Engagement Coordinator, Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)) 
Abe Bavelaar (Chair of the Lived Experience Council) 
Jodi Kelloway (The City of Red Deer) 

This joint presentation of the Lived Experience Council, the city of Red Deer, and the Canadian Mental Health Administration highlights the collaborative work and progress made by engaging lived ability in municipal and community contexts. Historically, there was limited coordination in involving LE beyond specific projects. Red Deer developed a plan to remedy this, including funding and contracting individuals with established community relationships. A significant step was the creation of a Request for Proposal (RFP) outlining guidelines, processes, and recruitment strategies, ensuring LE had a meaningful voice in city governance. 

Action Research on Chronic Homelessness (ARCH), Homeward Trust Edmonton and The Medicine Hat Community Housing Society

Speakers: 
Jaime Rogers (Medicine Hat Community Housing Society) 
Kerri Sandford (Medicine Hat Community Housing Society) 

This informative session updated the Action Research on Chronic Homelessness (ARCH) program. It will offer valuable insights and update you on the program’s progress and impact. 

Mental Health Allyship, Canadian Mental Health Association

Speakers:  
Jeremy Livingston (Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)) 
Lance Freitas (Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA))  

During the Mental Health Allyship session, diverse topics related to mental health allyship were covered, including stigma, the distinction between mental health and mental illness, and the recovery-oriented approach. The session emphasized the importance of allyship in promoting supportive and inclusive practices in communities and service sectors. Strategies for promoting recovery-oriented mental health practices, addressing stigma, and collaborating with diverse communities were presented, advocating for the transformation of services towards a recovery-oriented model. 

Supportive Housing Panel – Lessons Learned and New Approaches, Homeward Trust Edmonton And Native Counselling Services Of Alberta (NSCA)

Speakers:  
Jeff Walker (Homeward Trust Edmonton) 
Crystal Thompson-Kootenay (Native Counselling Services of Alberta (NSCA)) 
Blake Jackman (Native Counselling Services of Alberta (NSCA)) 

The panel discussed “Lessons Learned and New Approaches for Supportive Housing.” Homeward Trust Edmonton hosted the event, featuring speakers from Homeward Trust Edmonton and Native Counselling Services of Alberta (NSCA). The panel shared insights and experiences about supportive housing and explored innovative approaches to address housing challenges. They also discussed safety, resident rights, and community engagement within supportive housing frameworks, emphasizing a person-centred approach to housing stability. 

Canadian Shelter Transformation Network, Calgary Drop-In Shelter

Speakers:  
Sandra Clarkson (Calgary Drop-In Shelter) 

This information session is dedicated to the Canadian Shelter Transformation Network and establishing a Community of Practice based in Alberta. At the 2024 Housing Supports Forum, the session featured a focused initiative led by Sandra Clarkson from the Calgary Drop-In Centre. The initiative aims to convert shelters in Alberta into housing-focused facilities, with the primary goal of speeding up the transition of individuals from shelters to permanent housing. They are looking for five pilot sites across the province to kick-start this transformation. Bottom of Form 

Kawegehanowak (Together We Will House Them), Lived Expertise Committee

Speakers:  
Pamela Spurvey (Lived Expertise Committee Member) 
Rosemary Fayant (Lived Expertise Committee Member) 
Lori McDermott (Lived Expertise Committee Member)  

This session discussed housing program principles through lived experience. The speakers, Pamela Spurvey, Rosemary Fayant, and Lori McDermott, shared their expertise and discussed various housing support strategies and challenges. Their perspectives offered a deep understanding of housing issues and the importance of lived experience in informing effective support systems. 

Day Three: Building Hope and Empowering Voices 

Hope Building 101, Canadian Mental Health Association

Speakers:  
Amanda De Boer (Recovery Facilitator for Canadian Mental Health Association Edmonton’s Recovery College) 
Jay Forcier (Recovery Facilitator for Canadian Mental Health Association Edmonton’s Recovery College) 

At Hope Building 101, hosted by the Canadian Mental Health Association, Amanda De Boer and Jay Forcier, Recovery Facilitators, presented valuable insights into the importance of hope in collaborating with clients and demonstrated a purposeful technique for gently challenging those who feel hopeless or helpless. 

Building A Diverse Housing Continuum, Housing, And Homeless Initiatives Grande Prarie

Speakers:  
Wendy Hughes (Director of Housing and Homeless Initiative (HHI)) 
Samantha Chippeway (Housing Operation Lead Housing and Homeless Initiative (HHI)) 
Ashley Saunders (Housing Coordinator Housing and Homeless Initiative (HHI)) 

In the session, speakers discussed creating a diverse housing continuum tailored to the community’s needs while addressing homelessness. This presentation highlights the concept of building multiple housing options within the continuum tailored to the community’s varying needs while addressing homelessness.  

Storytelling, Lived Expertise Committee

Speakers:  
Pamela Spurvey (Lived Experience Committee, Homeward Trust) 
Lori McDermott (Lived Experience Committee, Homeward Trust)  

The speakers shared powerful stories of multigenerational trauma and recovery journeys. They emphasized the importance of holistic support and community collaboration in overcoming barriers to wellness. This session will focus on storytelling from a lived experience perspective. For example, the speakers will discuss how taking ownership of personal stories can lead to meaningful change. They will draw from their journeys, from experiencing homelessness to their present day. They highlighted the significance of collaborative support systems and compensating individuals for sharing their stories to bring about generational change toward wellness. 

Youth Agency Collaborative, Youth Empowerment & Support Services 

Speakers:  
Margo Long (Youth Empowerment and Support Services (YESS)) 

Margo Long presented the Youth Agency Collaboration strategy for Edmonton, emphasizing coordinated care, trauma-informed approaches, and community-based services to support youth experiencing homelessness. 

The session focused on the Youth Agency Collaboration (YAC) strategy in Edmonton, which addresses challenges youth agencies face, such as competition for funding and poor data sharing. Margo Long from YESS proposed a collaborative approach to youth services, emphasizing shared outcomes, coordinated care, and trauma-informed practices. The strategy included establishing 24/7 intervention centers and community youth support centers, aiming to replace shelters with housing and create a comprehensive network of youth services. 

Recovery Oriented Serviced in the Homeless Serving Sector, George Spady Society  

Speakers:  
Lindy Dowhaniuk (George Spady Society, Edmonton) 
Renee Iverson (George Spady Society, Edmonton) 

The speakers highlighted the critical connections between the Recovery-Oriented System of Care (ROSC) and the homeless-serving sector during the presentation. They discussed the various entry points into ROSC, explained how housing teams could support individuals before, during, and after treatment, and detailed how the process of building Recovery Capital was related to the homeless-serving sector. 

Building Your Data Capabilities, Calgary Homeless Foundation And Homeward Trust Edmonton 

Speakers:  
Sam Elliot (Calgary Homeless Foundation) 
Dr. Tyler Roberts (Homeward Trust) 

The session, presented by Sam Elliot from the Calgary Homeless Foundation and Dr. Tyler Roberts from Homeward Trust, focused on developing and expanding data capabilities over time. It addressed shared challenges encountered by organizations and provided a systematic approach to resolving them. The session emphasized building tools and processes that could be scaled horizontally across various data domains. 

Empathy Building Project, Lana Michelin  

Speakers:  
Lana Michelin (Red Deer Artist, Journalist and Writer) 

Lana Michelin showcased her art series “Being Human: Portraits on Homelessness” at the 2024 Housing Supports Forum. The Being Human portrait exhibit urges viewers to consider individuals often overlooked on the streets. Understanding their challenges brings us closer to fostering empathy. It is through knowledge that we may find compassion. Michelin interacted with shelter residents over three visits, explaining the project and encouraging participation. The exhibition is held at the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery until August 10th, 2024. 

Looking Forward to Future Years 

The Housing Supports Forum 2024 served as a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration among stakeholders and partnerships dedicated to ending homelessness in Alberta.

Every year, on June 21st, Canadians unite to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day. This day, set during June National Indigenous History Month, is dedicated to honouring and acknowledging the diverse cultures, histories, and contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples across Canada.  

Local Edmonton & Area Events

Additional Events To Celebrate All Year Round 

Night Market and Entertainment Showcase at the River Cree*	River Cree Resort and Casino  300 East Lapotac Boulevard, Enoch	June 20-23  Thurs-Sat: 2-10pm  Sun: Noon-5pm	$5 – Gate Admission  Free for Elders 60+ and Children under 12
3rd Year Celebration – Soup and Bannock	Indigenous Psychological Services  #104 – 17510 102 Avenue NW, Edmonton	June 24  4-6pm	Free – Registration required (Please call Indigenous Psychological Services: 587-594-9855)
Run-Walk for Reconciliation	Lions Park  21 Sir Winston Churchill Avenue, St. Albert	July 1  9am-Noon	Free
Poundmaker’s Lodge Annual Powwow	Poundmaker’s Lodge  25008 Poundmaker Road, St. Albert	August 2-4  Fri – 7pm  Sat – 1pm  Sun – 1pm	Free

Here’s a list of learning resources, focused on Alberta and Edmonton. These resources provide various ways to learn, appreciate, and engage with Indigenous cultures, histories, and current issues in Alberta and Edmonton. 

1. Empowering the Spirit: Educational resources aimed at deepening understanding of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit perspectives through collaboration between Alberta Education and the Alberta Regional Professional Development Consortium.  

2. Blackfoot Digital Library: This library contains a wealth of information about Blackfoot people and culture, including images, audio, videos, and documents collected over the past century. 

3. Michif Word of the Day: Learn about the Michif language, which combines Cree and French and is spoken mainly among Métis people. This resource helps preserve and understand this endangered language. 

4. 10 Ways to Make the Most of National Indigenous Peoples Day: An article by Homeward Trust Edmonton offering ten ideas to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day (NIPD) on June 21st. 

5. Indigenous Resources and Events at EPL: The Edmonton Public Library provides information about Indigenous Peoples, including weekly Cree and Stoney language classes, cultural teachings by Nôhkom Jo-Ann Saddleback, and resources on reconciliation. 

6. Métis Culture: Explore Métis culture and heritage with a family-friendly video created in partnership with Edmonton Public Schools, Edmonton Catholic Schools, Knowwacîston (MacEwan University), and the City of Edmonton Indigenous Relations Office. 

7. Books by Indigenous Authors: Literature is crucial to understanding Indigenous perspectives. This resource emphasizes the importance of reading books by Indigenous authors to gain insight into their experiences, histories, and cultures. 

Ways to observe, participate and learn more

First established in 2021, September 30th marks Canada’s third National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s calls to action.  

This is a day to reflect, honour and remember the survivors, their families, communities, and others affected by the residential school system while calling upon each of us to take responsibility for building understanding and better relationships and recommit to recognizing the rights of Indigenous, Inuit and Métis peoples.  

Below are a few ways you can observe, learn, listen, and deepen your understanding of the history and legacy of residential schools in Canada and what meaningful truth and reconciliation should look like: 

WEAR ORANGE FOR ORANGE SHIRT DAY: 

September 30^th is Orange Shirt Day. Learn more here about the origin and history of this day and why we were orange as a symbol.

ATTEND AN EVENT IN THE EDMONTON AREA:  

• Orange Shirt Day Community Walk 
  • Organization Name: Standing Together 
  • Location: Mary Burlie Park (10465 97 Street NW) to Giovanni Caboto Park (9425 109A Ave) 
  • Time: Noon-4 pm

• Empowering Our Spirits
  • Location: Boyle Street Plaza, 9538 103A Avenue, Edmonton 
  • Organization Name: Community partners 
  • Time: Noon-3 pm and 5-10 pm 

• Find more events happening throughout the day listed by The City of Edmonton here: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2023 

READ & LEARN: 

• National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation Canada: Learn about the legacy of the Indian Residential School system through interactive and educational resources. 
• Learn about and embrace Métis cultural activities here from the Métis Nation of Alberta. 
• Truth the Reconciliation Commission and 94 Calls to Action 
• Implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. 
• Explore Indigenous cultures and stories shared by the Government of Canada. 
• We have catalogued many incredible books by Indigenous authors. Check them out HERE 
• Orange Shirt Society 
• Edmonton Public Library – Mâmawôayâwin (Indigenous Services) 

WATCH AND LISTEN:  

• Stolen Children | Residential School Survivors Speak Out 
• Kamloops Residential School Survivors Recall Students Going Missing, Digging Of Graves In Orchard 
• A Day to Listen:  Mino Bimaadiziwin: Honouring Indigenous Identity. 
• We Know the Truth: Stories to Inspire Reconciliation | CBC News 
• “The Stranger” Official Video – Gord Downie – Secret Path 

SUPPORT: 

Indian Residential School Crisis Line	1-866-925-4419 (toll-free)
First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness 24/7 Help Line	1-855-242-3310  Support can be provided in English, French, Ojibway, Cree and Inuktitut
Alberta Health Services Mental Health Help Line	1-877-303-2642 (toll-free)
Canadian Mental Health Association – 24-hour Distress Line	780-482-4357 (HELP)

September 30, 2022, will be the second National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada.

This national day of observance was established in 2021 in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s calls to action:

“We call upon the federal government, in collaboration with Aboriginal peoples, to establish, as a statutory holiday, a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to honour Survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.”

Below are a few ways you can observe this important day of public commemoration, as well as ways to learn, to listen, and deepen your understanding of the history and legacy of residential schools in Canada and what meaningful truth and reconciliation should look like.

1. Read

We have catalogued many incredible books by Indigenous authors. Check them out HERE

2. Watch

• Stolen Children | Residential School Survivors Speak Out
• Kamloops Residential School Survivors Recall Students Going Missing, Digging Of Graves In Orchard
• “The Stranger” Official Video – Gord Downie – Secret Path
• Gem CBC – Truth And Reconciliation Collection
• CBC News Special: National Day For Truth And Reconciliation Friday, September 30 At 12:30 P.M. ET On CBC, CBC Gem, CBC News Network, Cbcnews.Ca And The CBC News App
• A Day to Listen: Amplifying Indigenous Voices
• Panel Discussion: Indigenous Perspectives on the Pope’s Apology September 30 at 1 p.m. ET

3. Listen

• Remembering the Children: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
  Friday, September 30 at 1 p.m. (2 AT/ 2:30 NT) on CBC Radio One and CBC Listen
• Telling Our Twisted Histories. Words connect us. Words hurt us. Indigenous histories have been twisted by centuries of colonization. Host Kaniehti:io Horn brings us together to decolonize our minds– one word, one concept, one story at a time.
• Unreserved is the radio space for Indigenous community, culture, and conversation. Host Rosanna Deerchild takes you straight into Indigenous Canada, from Halifax to Haida Gwaii, from Shamattawa to Ottawa, introducing listeners to the storytellers, culture makers and community shakers from across the country.
• 2 Crees in a Pod explores a deep conversation about Indigenous knowledge and how this way of life and learning is critical for Indigenous people today.
• A Tribe Called Geek is a nerd-culture podcast that prides itself on its “Indigenerdity.” The ATCG website covers everything from comics, STEM, cosplaying, art, entertainment and more.

4. Wear an orange shirt

• When she was six, Phyllis (Jack) Webstad had a brand new orange shirt for her first day of school, bought for her by her grandmother. When she arrived at residential school, she was stripped and her clothes were taken away, including her orange shirt. The shirt was never returned. To Phyllis, the colour orange was a reminder of her residential school experiences: “how my feelings didn’t matter, how no one cared and I felt like I was worth nothing. All of us little children were crying and no one cared.” Learn more about her story.

5. Attend an event in the Edmonton area

• Book reading: Nokum is my Teacher and Phyllis’ Orange Shirt, September 30, 11:30 a.m.-12 p.m. at Royal Alberta Museum, Roundhouse. ‘Nokum is my Teacher,’ is a dialogue between a grandmother and her grandson to help him better understand the larger world while respecting Indigenous ways of life. Phyllis Webstad’s book, ‘Phyllis’ Orange Shirt’ will also be read on her true story behind creating Orange Shirt Day.
• Royal Alberta Museum Viewing Table, September 30, 1-3 p.m. at Royal Alberta Museum lobby. Learn about Indigenous stories and objects from RAM’s Learning Collection at their viewing table in the lobby. Visitors will have the chance to ask questions and see objects up close.
• Calling on Spirit Back, Truth and Reconciliation event, Sept 30, 2022 at Boyle Street Plaza – 9538 103A Ave
  • 7:30 a.m. – Pipe Ceremony
  • 9 a.m. – Courageous Conversation
  • 5 p.m. – Feast
  • 6 p.m. – Round Dance
• Orange Shirt Day Walk, September 30 at 4 p.m. at Wetaskiwin and District Heritage Museum. Join us as we walk on the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation to remember those children taken from their homes and sent to Residential Schools. We will be walking from the Wetaskiwin & District Heritage Museum to the Peace Cairn and then move over to Jubilee Park for more activities.
• Guided Walks on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, September 30 at 9-11 a.m. & 1-3 p.m. at U of A MacEwan Library, Norquest Library, UofA Library & NEOS Library Consortium. Join us for reflective land-based teaching and learning on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Two walks are planned for this day, each considering the histories of these lands and its people from different vantage points.
  1. Morning Walk: ᐄᓃᐤ (ÎNÎW) River Lot 11∞Indigenous Arts Park to Rossdale Burial Grounds
  2. Afternoon Walk: MacEwan Treaty Marker to Twin Burial Grounds (Saint Joachim & Edmonton Municipal)

Reposted from the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association. Original post June 21, 2021

Each year on June 21^st, Indigenous peoples across Canada come together to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day (NIPD) – June 21^st was chosen as the date in 1996 as it falls on the Summer Solstice. This is a day to recognize the unique and diverse cultures and heritage of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Joining in these celebrations is a great way to learn and support Indigenous peoples locally. The CHRA Indigenous Caucus invites you to celebrate National Indigenous People’s Day, especially during a difficult time for Indigenous peoples across Canada. Here are 10 ideas to help you make the most of NIPD:

1. Discover your local listings of National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations and attend with family, friends, colleagues. Enjoy a virtual edition of the Summer Solstice Festival.
2. Read and discuss the 10 Guiding Principles of Reconciliation from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Report (.pdf) with family and colleagues.
3. Learn about the Indigenous history of where you live or work: native-land.ca is a great place to start! It maps out the different territories, languages and treaties that were and are occupied by Indigenous peoples of those lands.
4. Learn some greetings in the Indigenous language of where you live and/or work.
5. Seek out an Indigenous restaurant or food truck. If there are none around you, try out some recipes! Here is a great one for Bannock that is “elder approved”.
6. Listen to an Indigenous podcast, some Indigenous music, Indigenous comedy, or watch an Indigenous tv show or movie. Below is a list of our favourites:
   • Red Man Laughing (Podcast): features Indigenous artists, thinkers and doers who talk about Indian country and the mainstream.
   • All My Relations (Podcast): explores our relationships to land, to our creatural relatives and to one another.
   • Coffee with my Ma (Podcast): features a radical activist mother who tells stories of her long adventurous life.
   • Indigenous Canada Music (playlist): enjoy a mix to celebrate the music made by Indigenous peoples in Canada.
   • CBC Unreserved (TV episode): watch a hilarious stand-up sketch of Indigenous comedy.
   • Rutherford Falls (TV show): a top pick from Indigenous Caucus Manager, Steve Sutherland.
   • National Film Board: explore an extensive list of Canadian Indigenous films.
7. Visit an art gallery that features Indigenous art.
8. Support your local Indigenous entrepreneurs.
9. Read a book by an Indigenous author. Indigenous Corporate Training Inc. has some great e-books. Some of our favourite authors include Jesse Thistle, Eden Robinson, Richard Wagamese, Lee Maracle, and Waubgeshig Rice. There are so many great books out there for you to choose from!

Show your support for a For Indigenous, By Indigenous Housing Strategy by visiting and endorsing our website at forindigenousbyindigenous.ca.

The Edmonton John Howard Society is raising awareness of Indigenous Culture by displaying medicine boxes filled with four medicines—tobacco, cedar, sage and sweetgrass—and a description of each of their uses. The idea behind the display was to hang them in high transited areas to bring awareness of the medicines and intended to teach both staff and clients. 

There are 44 display boxes—11 sets—for all of EJHS’ agency programs. We connected with Alejandro Montano, Manager of The Loft at Edmonton John Howard Society (EJHS), to learn more about the boxes. 

What inspired the creation of these displays? 

EJHS’ internal Truth & Reconciliation Committee is always coming up with ways to highlight, raise awareness of, and honour Indigenous Culture throughout our different programs. Having said that, the four Medicines in Indigenous Culture are very important that the committee thought would be appropriate to bring attention to from staff and residents.

What is the Truth and Reconciliation Committee? When was it formed, and why?

EJHS’ internal Truth and Reconciliation Committee was formed in 2019, for the purpose of bringing awareness to Indigenous matters that relate to our agency’s clients and staff. The committee is formed by staff members that work in different EJHS programs. The committee is constantly brainstorming ways in which our agency can be more inclusive and adaptive to the many challenges that Indigenous populations face on a daily basis. Additionally, another purpose of the committee is to evaluate how we can bring change throughout EJHS’ programs, to not only create a positive impact with our clients and staff, but also throughout the rest of the community as a whole. The TRC guides the committee Calls to Action, working to ensure EJHS’s mission, values, and 50-year Business Plan align with the Calls to Action.  

What is the significance of this display? 

The Four Sacred Medicines (Sage, Tobacco, Sweetgrass, Cedar) are displayed in each individual box, matching the corresponding colours of the Medicine Wheel. The inside of the box has a description that highlights the intention/use of each particular medicine according to Indigenous wisdom. EJHS thought it was important to highlight these as they are a big part of Indigenous Culture so that those of us of non-Indigenous heritage can learn and support clients and co-workers better.

What has the reaction been so far with both clients and staff? 

Both clients and staff throughout the agency’s many programs seem to have received the displays well. It seems that both staff and clients alike are learning more about Indigenous Culture.

Any success stories to share? 

Our contracted Indigenous Mentor, who came on with EJHS after these Medicine Boxes went up, has stated she is thrilled to have these visible to all clients and staff. 

Several clients who identify as Indigenous have mentioned that it is great to see the programs highlighting the Medicines as they play an integral role in their culture.

Community partners that visit EJHS programs, such as Alberta Health Services, have stated that the Medicine Boxes are a great idea and that other agencies throughout the city should be creating similar things for their programs.

#YegHousingMonth

Edmonton Housing Month is an annual campaign that aims to raise awareness of the need for and importance of safe, quality, affordable housing in the Capital Region.

Why does Housing Month 2021 matter?

Affordable housing is the foundation for stable, healthy communities. Affordable housing supports people, improves our neighbourhoods and strengthens our economy. Safe, secure, affordable homes give individuals and families the opportunity to build a better life. This is why affordable housing is a top priority for so many organizations throughout the Edmonton region.

See who’s involved >>

Register for a Lunch & Learn today!

Throughout November, the Housing Month working group will be hosting another virtual campaign focused on a series of webinars using a plain-language Lunch and Learn approach. Topics will cover the range of the housing spectrum, focus on timely issues, and provide information on various elements such as Housing Support, Supportive and Affordable Housing, Mental Health, Indigenous and Lived Experience Perspectives, and much more.

#WeCanEndHomelessness Together

Housing helps end homelessness. We can do this together.

What can you do?

Reach out to elected officials. From every level of government, let them know that housing and ending homelessness are very important issues to you, and that you are paying attention to the actions they are taking to address them.

Donate. Help local organizations that are working on the frontlines to end homelessness and provide safe. affordable housing. Organizations like Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society, Bissell Centre, Canadian Mental Health Association, GEF Seniors Housing, Youth Empowerment & Support Services (YESS) could all use your financial support.

Volunteer. Although COVID-19 has had a significant impact on opportunities to volunteer, there are still safe ways to help a number of organizations through Volunteer Alberta. Or reach out directly to Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society, Bissell Centre, Canadian Mental Health Association, GEF Seniors Housing, Youth Empowerment & Support Services (YESS) and see how you can help.

Join the conversation. The need for housing and action on ending homelessness doesn’t end when housing month is over. Raise your voice, share your opinions and help keep the conversation going on social media. Remember to use #YegHousingMonth and #WeCanEndHomelessness when posting to social media.

With Father’s Day just around the corner, we’ve put together a gift guide featuring some local businesses that give back to the community. These companies donate some or all of their sales towards helping our vulnerable neighbours.   

Please note: This list is not at all exhaustive and we apologize if we have missed one of your favourites. If you know of a local business like this that gives back to the community and isn’t listed here, send us an email with your suggestion, and we’ll be sure to include it. Email your suggestions to media@homewardtrust.ca

If you missed them, check out our other gift guides – Mother’s Day Gift Guide and Holiday Gift Guide. Any day is a good day to show Mom, Dad or that special someone just how much you appreciate them, especially if you are also supporting the local community.

Find Edmonton

findedmonton.com #YEG-based

The start-up cost for anyone moving into their first home can be expensive, especially for someone moving out of homelessness. Find provides free essential furnishings to individuals and families who are moving out of homelessness. In addition to supporting Housing Support program participants, Find sells gently used furniture and housewares at a low-cost to the public via its brick-and-mortar shop and online. Every purchase from Find goes back to supporting individuals and families moving out of homelessness.

Bissell Thrift Shop

bissellthriftshop.com #YEG-based

The Bissell Thrift Shop is a social enterprise of Bissell Centre, a non-profit organization grounded in eliminating poverty. Sales from the shop go directly back into Bissell Centre programs and services to support community members. From the revenue earned at the Thrift Shop, 89¢ of every dollar goes back to supporting the community through Bissell Centre’s life-changing services and programs including meals, outreach, housing, mental health, employment, financial empowerment and more. Shop online or instore for a unique and one-of-a-kind gift for dad. 

All prices are quoted in Canadian dollars. All prices quoted were checked shortly before publication, but prices change often and might not match what is found online. Readers should make sure to check in-stock and delivery status this year.

Supporting our community is important to us. With Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 9) a few weeks away, we’ve put together a gift guide featuring local, BIPOC female-owned businesses in Edmonton and Calgary. Whether you’re shopping for a mom, a mom-to-be, an aunt, a grandmother or any other special figure in your life, show your support for BIPOC businesses by shopping for these great gifts. 

Please note: This list is not at all exhaustive and we apologize for missing one of your favourites. If you know of a local BIPOC-owned brand that isn’t listed here, send us an email with your suggestion and we’ll include it here. Email us your suggestions at media@homewardtrust.ca

Keep an eye out for our Father’s Day gift guide next month. 

Edmonton-based

buno-design.com/ #YEG-based

Rooted in sustainability, Buno creates jewelry by repurposing old, vintage and salvaged materials to reduce fashion wastage and its environmental impact. Each piece of jewelry in Buno’s collection is handcrafted in St. Albert, AB. 

We recommend: Coral Collection Necklace, $80

Perfect for spring and summer, these necklaces are inspired by the beauty of coral reefs. 

Each necklace, available in six different colour combinations, features handpainted wood beads in various sizes, ceramic beads and a Maasai bead embellishment on a nylon cord.  

shopgikan.com/ #YEG-based

Gikan creates high-quality products through timeless pieces inspired by the creator’s Filipino heritage and strive to preserve their Filipino culture and cultivate a better future for generations to come. As part of that, Gikan donates a portion of their funds from purchase to a “Create with a Purpose” jar that is used to give back to the community whenever needed. Through contributions, Gikan has given back to Black Lives Matter, Black Visions Collective and the Lebanese Red Cross.

We recommend: Lupa Earrings, $15

“Lupa” in Taglog means ground/soil, which is a perfect name for these earrings that feature a brown/white marble with terracotta frame. 

ilovethemoon.bigcartel.com/ #YEG-based

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift, consider opting for a custom-made product. Mabel Garcia, the illustrator behind I Love the Moon, creates custom watercolour portraits stylized based on a photo you provide and other details and offer portraits for individuals, couples, weddings, families and pets. Prices vary depending on the type of portrait made. 

We recommend: Family Portrait, $230

Forget going to Sears for a family portrait, get one illustrated. Plus, this beautiful piece can be hung in the family room for all to see. 

jshinedesigns.ca/ #YEG-based

Jessica Sanderson-Barry, the creator and owner of JShineDesigns, produces beautiful handmade beaded jewelry that incorporates elements from the land such as tanned-hide (elk, moose and deer hide), porcupine quills, bone, etc. Designs sell out fast, so make sure to save the date for the next drop, which is April 28, 2021. 

We recommend: Any of the items that are releasing on April 28

kanatanhealthsolutions.ca/ #YEG-based

Kanatan Health Solutions is an Indigenous family-owned business that produces high-quality culturally appropriate hand sanitization products and other personal protective equipment (PPE). Their products, such as the hand sanitizers, include ingredients from traditional medicinal plants like cedar, sweetgrass, sage and sweet tobacco, while providing a safe alternative to the strong alcohol-based varieties currently sold in the market. 

We recommend: Sacred 4 Bundle Hand Sanitizer Sprays, $40.00

This four-pack bundle includes essential oils from the Four Sacred Smudges and honours the traditions of their ancestors. The sanitizers are Health Canada approved and contain 75% medical-grade isopropyl alcohol. 

kynapparel.ca/ #YEG-based

KYN Apparel produces unique and bold fashion pieces, clothing and accessories, that blend vibrant African prints with common fabrics such as lace, tulle, denim, tweed and more. The result is a unique garment that is bold and colourful that will make any outfit pop. 

We recommend: Foldover Clutch, $35

This clutch, which comes in two different sizes, features a colorful African wax print and multi-functions as a bag for small electronics or cables. 

motherearthessentials.ca #YEG-based

Mother Earth Essentials is an Indigenous-owned company that creates luxurious bath and beauty products from natural ingredients and traditional recipes used in Indigenous culture. 

We recommend: Mother Earth: Plants for Health & Beauty, $24.95

The founder, Carrie Armstrong, created a book with recipes and traditions for anyone who wants to improve their life with ethically-crafted health and beauty products that can be made at home. The recipes and traditions found in this book reflect the culture and the knowledge of the Medicine Wheel, featuring 26 edible and medicinal plants that can be gathered in nature as Carrie and her grandmother did.

newclassics.ca/ #YEG-based

New Classics is a sustainable e-retailer that merges social responsibility and environmental awareness through its curated edit of slow fashion brands. The Edmonton-based company sells everything from clothing to shoes to housewares.

We recommend: Soap Dream Collection, $34.95

These artisanal soap bars are handcrafted in small batches here in Edmonton. The soaps are made from a luxurious blend of olive oil, coconut oil, palm oil (sustainably grown and ethically sourced) and castor oil that is infused with moisturizing sodium lactate and kaolin clay to polish and refine the skin surface. 

onenesholistics.ca/ #YEG-based

OneNes Holistics produces skincare made from high-quality raw ingredients from the earth, just as earth intended. Their products are 100% natural and do not contain any bad stuff like chemicals, fragrances, alcohol or preservatives. 

We recommend: Skin Detox Coffee Body Scrub, $22.22

Get rid of dry skin with this coffee scrub that is described as a “deeply penetrating detox exfoliation in a jar.” Made out of raw and natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil and coffee, this scrub will help moisturize and nourish the skin and can help improve blood circulation with regular use. 

tikkhu.com/ #YEG-based

Tikkhu is a contemporary jewelry line inspired by earth’s natural elements and textiles designed to elevate one’s everyday style. Curated and handcrafted in Edmonton, Tikkhu offers a range of minimalistic jewelry including necklaces, earrings, bracelets and rings that offers connectedness with its wearers and allows them to experience their own meanings within them that bring the pieces to life.

We recommend: LOVE YOUR MAMA Necklace, $38

This MAMA nameplate is the perfect gift for a mom or mom-to-be. Made out of gold-plated brass, this necklace is simple but packs a statement. 

zenliondesign.ca/ #YEG-based

Edmonton’s Zen Lion Design offers super comfy, customized apparel, including crewnecks, hoodies, and t-shirts, which are hand pressed with custom designs. Some items are completely customizable that allows you to choose the type of garment, colour and text. 

We recommend: Custom Kids Name Shirt, Hoodie or Crewneck, $44-$60

Forget wearing your heart on your sleeve, wear your kids names on your shirt! This customizable top features your kids names in the colour of your choice. 

workhallstudio.com/ #YEG-based

Workhall is founded with the mission of artistry over commercialism and designs clothing using plant-based or plant-blended fabrics. They offer life-long alterations and tailoring to reduce garment waste. 

We recommend: Jema, $98

This is one of their top-selling dresses, which is made of a lustrous and soft cupro knit fabric (a recycled fabric generated from discarded cotton plant waste. This dress is also anti-wrinkle and antibacterial making it the ideal garment for travel and long-term wear.  

Calgary-based

alora.ca/ #YYC-based

Alora sells handmade jewelry for people to feel unique, empowered and beautiful and inspire women to reach higher, dream bigger and be confident. What’s more, they donate 5% of their profits to help women in their community. 

We recommend: Mother and Child Pendant, $48 

This handmade recycled brass necklace represents the unbreakable bond that exists between a mother and child. It’s a perfect gift to the moms in your life: new or expectant, wife, sister, or grandma. 

landofdaughters.com/ #YYC-based

You can never have too many candles, or that’s what we like to think, anyway. Land of Daughters is a Metis and female led company that specializes in handcrafted candles, aroma room sprays, solid perfumes and wax melts available in a variety of scents. Not sure what scent is for you or that special someone? Land of Daughters offers sampler scents available to help you choose your perfect scent. 

We recommend: LET’S STAY HOME Candle, $30

“Let’s Stay Home” is an effortless blend of woody sandalwood and soft lavender that is one of the company’s bestsellers. Plus, it’s a gentle reminder to stay at home during these turbulent times. 

vuoyen.com/ #YYC-based

Vuoyen offers unique yet functional products made for everyday use. Products range from tote bags to 3D masks to scrunchies, which are all handmade and carefully curated in Calgary. 

We recommend: The Utility Tote, $45

The Utility Tote is a versatile product that can be used for school, work, groceries, the gym—the possibilities are endless. This particular style features multiple pockets that are convenient for small items like hand sanitizer, masks, or keys.

All prices are quoted in Canadian dollars. All prices quoted were checked shortly before publication, but prices change often and might not match what is found online. Readers should make sure to check in-stock and delivery status this year.