The Circle of Turtle Lodge is rallying 60’s Scoop survivors living in Renfrew County to join in their “Welcome Home” project including 4 Saturday workshops focused on reclaiming indigenous well-being over the summer at the indigenous hub in the East Pembroke Mall.
The 60’s Scoop is a relatively unheard-of phenomenon that occured in the late 50’s until the early 80’s. Behind the closed doors of child welfare agencies following on the residential school’s Indigenous child removal policies in Canada.
Over 22,500 First Nations, Inuit and Metis children were apprehended, solicited, and trafficked across provinces, boarders, and overseas by social workers, churches, and adoption agencies during the 60’s scoop. This was hailed as a kindness by both the provincial and federal governments of the time.
Survivors and those affected by the intergenerational trauma it caused are encouraged to register. There are 4 opportunities to participate through the summer: June 3rd, July 8th, August 12th, and September 9th at the Indigenous Hub. $50 will secure your spot.
At the Well-being Day, between the opening and closing ceremonies, you can take part in a number of workshops:
Indigenous Identity: Spirit Names and Clans
Your Medicine Bundle for Healing
Self-Care for Scoop Survivors
Intergenerational Trauma Indicators
and a Sharing Circle
There are a few scholarships available for each date for those 60’s Scoop survivors who would like to attend but cannot afford the registration. Please send your request to leigh@thecircleofturtlelodge.ca to apply. Additional, once per month, wellness days on the land will happen in June, July, August, and September. These are included with the registration for those interested.
For further information call the Indigenous Hub at 613-629-9977 or email them at thehub@thecircleofturtlelodge.ca
(Written by Luke Notman)