We Are All Treaty People

Youth Cultural Exchange

  • Published - 19/10/2020
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  • Posted By - OTC
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Youth from the Office of the Treaty Commissioner and newcomer youth from the Saskatoon Open Door Society, came together on Oct. 17 to learn more about each other, breakdown cultural stereotypes, and bust myths.

The youth from Canada, China, Somalia, Egypt, India, and Pakistan, got to ask real questions and understand each other’s histories and stories.

Indigenous youth talked about intergenerational trauma and the impact of residential schools, Orange Shirt Day, negative treatment by government, and Treaty Rights. They busted myths about the idea that Indigenous people don’t pay taxes, or that communities are dangerous.

Newcomer youth talked about leaving home, and the experience of coming to Canada. Muslim youth answered questions about Ramadan, and talked about the difference between religion and culture. They busted myths about being distant from the modern world.

The youth want to continue this learning and work together and proposed more activities to follow up in the future. The cultural exchange followed COVID-19 safety protocols, keeping socially distant and wearing masks.