Restoring at risk communities-doing it together in the pursuit of social justice

The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, M.D., P.C., M.P., Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs says it very well: ‘’Children are our future, and to give them the best possible start in life, we must collectively move from an intervention-based approach of apprehension and protection to prevention-based approaches to community, families and children's rights and well-being. There needs to be better access to mental health services, children need to be protected from sexual exploitation and children’s rights need better protection.

Working in genuine partnership with First Nations is critical to developing community-led solutions for reform that will reduce the number of children in care and result in better health, education and economic outcomes.”

Into a new stage of the project: my purpose

What is my purpose, you might ask?
When I went to work up North, I really thought I could make a DIFFERENCE but it became soon apparent that I was hitting upon walls I had not expected. Over and over, I was told I did not have judgment, not enough experience of the North and that I just didn’t understand. I was always left alone with my questions. It wasn't until I read Catherine Richardson's book that I fully understood what I had seen, heard and felt.

So it became apparent that  I could not, just sit there and watch it happen. Thereby, my walk and my purpose evolved as I made plans to go across Canada, not only to inform but also to raise funds for safehouses so that the children can stay safe and remain in their communities.

Bridge the differences and build connections

Inuit are at or near the bottom of all indicators of core socio-economic well-being. The oppression has led Inuit people to lose contact with their culture and identity. But, despite the hardship and adversity in power, with a failing of the justice system, the importance of the family in the social, economic and political of the people highlights their ability to work TOGETHER to find relevant solutions for themselves. Such approaches, mobilizing all resources, provide steps that redefine culturally appropriate processes for the people.

Are all Canadian Citizens Equal in Value and Dignity?

A simple walk through the streets in any northern community plunges us headfirst into the local culture. In summer, carvers work outdoors feet legged, tools and stones before them, and in winter, we meet women wearing the traditional coat - amauti - their baby nestled in the huge cap.

No Child Should Take the Long Way Home is a grassroot initiative to help children in need of loving care, of a protective and stable environment to meet their basic needs for protection, shelter, and education and to reinforce family unity.