Appendix B

Inviting Elders

All cultures are enriched by certain valuable and unique individuals. Such individuals possess a wide range of knowledge that can expand students' insight beyond the perspectives of the teacher and classroom resources.

Indian and Métis Elders are integral to the revival, maintenance, and preservation of Aboriginal cultures. Their participation can help develop the positive identity of Indian and Métis students and enhance self-esteem. All students may acquire a heightened awareness and sensitivity that inevitably promotes positive human relations. It is important to note that the title "Elder" does not necessarily indicate age. In Aboriginal societies, one is designated an Elder after acquiring significant wisdom and experience.

There is a protocol used in approaching Elders when requesting their guidance or assistance. This varies from community to community. The district chiefs' office, tribal council office, or a reserve's band council or education committee may be able to assist you. Prior to the Elder's visit, it is essential that you and your students enter a cycle of giving and receiving through an appropriate offering. This offering represents respect and appreciation for knowledge shared by an Elder. One must ascertain the type of offering prior to an Elder's visit as traditions differ throughout Aboriginal communities. In addition, it is appropriate to offer honoraria and/or expense reimbursement to a visiting Elder.

To begin the process, a letter should be sent to the local band council requesting Elder participation and indicating the role the Elder would have within the program. The band council may then be able to provide the names of persons who have the recognized knowledge and skills that would meet your specific needs. It is recommended that prior consultation occur with the Elder to share expectations for learning outcomes.

Friendship Centres across the province are active at the community level and often present cultural workshops and activities in cooperation with Elders and other recognized resource people.

Teachers and schools may wish to contact the following to initiate discussions.

Director of Education
Meadow Lake Tribal Council
Box 1360
Meadow Lake,  S0M 1V0
236-5654

Director of Education
Yorkton Tribal Council Education Centre
21 Bradbooke Drive North
Yorkton,  S3N 3R1
782-3644

Director of Education
Prince Albert Tribal Council
2nd Floor, 1004 1st Avenue West
Prince Albert,  S6V 4Y4
953-7234

Director of Education
Saskatoon District Tribal Council
226 Cardinal Crescent
Saskatoon,  S7L 6H8
956-6130

Director of Education
Battlefords Tribal Council
691 - 109th Street
North Battleford,  S9A 2C5
445-1383

Education Coordinator
Confederation of Tribal Nations
91 - 23rd Street West
Battleford,  S0M 0E0
445-5838

Director of Education
Touchwood/File Hills/Qu'Appelle Tribal Council
Box 178, Lebret,  S0G 2Y0
332-8224

Director of Education
Agency Chiefs Tribal Council
Box 550, Debden,  S0J 0S0
724-4555

Gabriel Dumont Institute of Native Studies and Applied Research, 121 Broadway Avenue East
Regina,  S4N 0Z6
522-5691
OR
48 - 12th Street East
Prince Albert,  S6V 1B2
764-1797

Saskatchewan Indian Federated College
Room 127, College West
University of Regina
Regina,  S4S 0A2
584-8333

Saskatchewan Indian Cultural Centre
401 Packham Place
Saskatoon,  S4N 2T7
244-1146