Celebrating Culture and Connection
Embrace Indigenous Heritage with Bissell Centre
In Canada today, Indigenous communities are celebrating their resilient spirit, and sharing the vibrant traditions that have been passed down through generations. The rich tapestry of Indigenous Nations in Treaty 6, 7, and Metis and Inuit 8 territories is being shared in exciting new ways.
Edmonton is home to approximately 87,000 Indigenous people, representing 5% of the city’s population. At Bissell Centre, we stand side by side with our Indigenous community members, as 44 per cent of those who access our Community Space and around 50 per cent of those who access our housing and child care programs proudly identify as Indigenous. Our close collaboration with these strong and resilient communities has transformed our programs to support their unique needs better.
Listening attentively to the voices of our community, we have crafted programs that provide opportunities to connect with Indigenous roots. We focus on celebrating age-old traditions while exploring new ways to honour them.
Guided by the Seven Sacred Teachings
- Love
- Respect
- Courage
- Honesty
- Wisdom
- Humility
- Truth
Our programs serve as a bridge to Indigenous heritage and a platform for nurturing improved relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities across Canada.
The Indigenous Engagement program is a spark of connection
Igniting a deep sense of belonging through the customs that define Indigenous identities. Together, we remember the past, learn from our ancestors’ wisdom, and embrace it all with open hearts. In this shared journey, we strengthen our bonds and foster understanding.
Our ultimate goal is to facilitate the critical connection to cultural identity and roots, taking a significant step toward Truth and Reconciliation. Our collective effort is to acknowledge past wrongs and forge a brighter future for Indigenous Nations
Discover What We Offer
1. Learning About Culture
The shadows of the past, like colonialism, continue to cast a long shadow today. Many in our community have lost touch with their Indigenous identity. We’re here to support people getting in touch with their culture. Our service delves deep into Reconciliation and the Calls to Action set forth by Indigenous Nations, paving the way for a brighter future.
2. Connecting with Others
Connecting with Indigenous cultural identity is best achieved through the bonds we form with each other. Our shared stories and traditions are the threads that weave our heritage. Bissell Centre’s Indigenous Engagement team proudly hosts
- Special events
- Ceremonies
- Activities
- Medicine gathering
And so, creating spaces where groups can unite and discover their Indigenous cultural identities. Together, we navigate through challenging times.
3. Personal Support
Our one-on-one support ensures you find precisely what you need to connect with your Indigenous cultural identity. Powwows and Round Dances are essential celebrations of Indigenous roots, and we are here to guide you in participating fully in your community’s events. Stay updated with our event listings to explore your cultural heritage.
4. Helpful Resources
Wisdom from Elders
Our Elders are the wise keepers of knowledge, passing down teachings from generation to generation. Bissell Centre ensures that Elders are readily available to provide guidance during challenging times.
Working Together
Stronger together, we collaborate with other organizations dedicated to addressing challenges related to Indigenous cultural identity. We connect individuals to additional services offered by organizations like Bent Arrow Society, Canadian Native Friendship Centre, Metis Nation of Alberta, and Red Road Healing Society. This comprehensive support network ensures that you receive all the assistance required to overcome obstacles.
Join us on this inspiring journey of Indigenous Engagement at Bissell Centre. Together, we celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Indigenous culture and strive for a future that shines brighter for all Indigenous Nations.