'Fifth generation' encouraged to become leaders

Page 17

The First Annual Youth-Elders Conference held at Sturgeon Lake Aug. 6-9 was attended by hundreds of people across Alberta.

Elders from Fort McMurray, Sucker Creek, Calling Lake, Wabasca, High Prairie, Ontario and the Poundmaker's Lodge in Edmonton offered their expertise to the many youth who

attended the conference.

According to addictions counsellor John Gambler, the conference was dedicated to Elders in appreciation of their wisdom, knowledge and the teachings they offer.

"We also dedicate it to the youth because they are our future leaders," said Gambler.

Topics such as drug and alcohol abuse, suicide prevention and solvent abuse were discussed openly.

Elders were always on hand to share their knowledge, offer guidance and when it was time to bring the youth together, spiritual dissection during the sweat lodge.

Elders such as Rufus and George Goodstriker from the Blood Reserve in southern Alberta were available. Also in attendance was Joe Tootoosis from Hobbema, Poundmaker's

Lodge and Alfred Bonaise, Vera Martin from Ontario and Rose Cheechum from Fort McMurray.

"We couldn't have held this conference without them," noted Gambler.

An elder's group, Muddy Bull Society, also attended from Hobbema. During the feast and drum songs, youth and elders mingled together.

"We also have many parents that attended and the nice thing about that is we have the chance to talk with families on how they can help their children. These conferences are so

important," Gambler said.

As Gambler talked, elders were busy chatting with the youth around campfires.

"You know, it makes me feel good inside looking at the elders getting together, speaking with the people.

"Soon the elders won't be around and if we don't learn from them now, we will be lost," a concerned Gambler said.

One of the things they (elders discussed was the importance of what is known as the "fifth generation".

"They say it is the fifth generation that will stand up, pick up the culture and become the leaders of tomorrow. That generation is here now, the one's the elders are talking to.

"It's happening now and that's why this conference and other Youth-Elder Conferences are so important."

The conference held on the Sturgeon Lake Campground was sponsored by the Alberta child welfare program, the national affiliate of the Alberta Drug and Alcohol Abuse Program

and the Sturgeon Lake Band.

"We couldn't have done it without the sponsorship. Without their support and Chief Ron Sunshine's support this would not have happened. We'd like to thank all the sponsors,"

Gamble said.