Listening to One Another Blog

March 2015, Montreal QC

In March 2015, more than 20 research partners from across Canada – including Secwepemc, Swampy Cree, Anishinabe, Innu, and Mi’gmaq First Nations representatives – attended an annual meeting in Montreal. Our objective? To share learning and feedback for Listening to One Another, a family-centered program that promotes wellbeing for Indigenous youth.

Kukwtsétsemc Juliana (Thank you Juliana)!

Both indigenous and non-indigenous protocols were observed; for example, Elders shared opening prayers in their native language before the meeting. A traditional gift of colorful pouches filled with tobacco – a sacred offering – was given to us by Juliana, a Secwepemc Elder.

Each First Nation group presented highlights from their Team Report.

The Team Report features key research steps including partnership, cultural adaptation, implementation of the program, and evaluation.

Innu and Mi’gmaq representatives with Audrey, Quebec’s coordinator.

Throughout the meeting, partners shared information about the impact of the Listening to One Another program, informally (pictured) and via Talking Circles (not pictured).

Young singers and drummers performed for everyone.

We learned that both youth and their parents really appreciated the 14-session program, especially the cultural components.

We also learned more about each other!

In meeting breaks, participants shared delicious meals in downtown Montreal (pictures). At the Native Friendship Centre, Kwe Kwe Gourmet served us delicious and healthy food (not pictured). Niá:wen Tiffany and Tia from Kahnawake)

The Swampy Cree Team from Northern Manitoba

As the Public Health Agency of Canada is funding the project for the next three years, the program will continue to be delivered by our current partners. Additional communities and new regions will join the project in the next phase as well.

Kukwtsétsemc, Yerí7 skukwstsétsemc (Secwepemc)
Kinanâskomitinâwâw/ ᑭᓇᓈᐢᑯᒥᑎᐣ (Swampy Cree)
Migwetch (Anishinabe)
Tshinashkumitin (Innu-aimun)
O’wela’lin (Mi’gmaq)
Merci (French)
Thank You!

Thank you to everyone for your participation!