Berens River First Nation and Canada launch Chief Elsie Bouchie Cultural Camp to revitalize Anishinaabe culture

Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

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December 5, 2022 - Berens River First Nation, Berens River, MB- Crown−Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

Today, leaders from the Berens River First Nation and the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, launched the Chief Elsie Bouchie Cultural Camp. The Government of Canada will provide $2.85 million towards the camp through the Cultural Spaces in Indigenous Communities Program.

The Chief Elsie Bouchie Cultural Camp is named in honour of Berens River First Nation's first female Chief who served her community in many roles-from cook to band councillor. Anishinaabe thought, practices and ways of being will be at the core of the camp's approach to supporting women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people on their journey as they restore, reclaim and strengthen their identity. The camp's programs will be based on principles of safety, fairness, and inclusiveness to create a living legacy that builds community health and well-being.

Investing in cultural spaces is crucial to addressing the root causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. This transformative program will also support Indigenous Peoples in reclaiming their identity as part of their journey towards self-determination, which is a crucial step in advancing reconciliation and building relationships with Indigenous Peoples, governments, and all Canadians.

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