A new Indigenous community group officially formed in Steinbach on Saturday during National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations at E.A. Friesen Park. The event drew people from the area who share a desire to build connection, community, and belonging for Indigenous residents.
Organizer Helena Wood, a Steinbach resident originally from St. Theresa Point which is part of Treaty 5, said she has seen many people in the area searching for connection. “There’s a lot of foster children in care, and they don’t know where they belong, so they’re looking for belonging and identity,” she said.
Wood explained that many families currently travel to Winnipeg or other cities to access cultural programming, but she hopes to change that by creating local opportunities.
Organizers noted that the gathering in Steinbach, on Treaty 1 territory, included a naming ceremony to mark the beginning of the new organization, which plans to host teaching events and celebrations.
“I started something like this before, about six or seven years ago,” said Wood, adding that COVID-19 put her earlier efforts on hold. “Now I’m trying again, and it’s exciting to see people coming together.”
Kleefeld resident Monique Curci also spoke about her desire to reconnect with her roots. Originally from Treaty 3 territory near Fort Frances, Ontario, Curci said, “Everybody’s looking for connection. I grew up with a really traditional family, but after moving here, I couldn’t find anything like that. We’re trying to build that community for everyone.”
She added that the need is especially strong for youth in care who lack access to Indigenous cultural programming in the area.
Steinbach resident Adam Norris also attended, hoping to find a sense of community after several years of feeling isolated. “It’s important that we find people to connect with; it’s important for our mental health collectively,” Norris said. He also took time during the event to help clean up the park, bringing supplies to sweep and tidy the area.
Organizers say this is just the beginning. They are inviting anyone interested in participating or sharing talents for future events to get involved. “We are looking for people who are willing to teach or contribute,” said Wood. Those interested can contact her by email at woodhelena39@gmail.com.