Group promotes traditional knowledge behind bars

Page 15

"Since I have been incarcerated," wrote an Aboriginal inmate in a letter to Wawatay News in November 1997, "I participated in sacred ceremonies such as the sweatlodge, which is a very meaningful experience for me. I felt the healing power of this ceremony which left a great impression in my life, and I am determined to further my knowledge of Native heritage and culture once I am released."

This letter referred to the Native Sons, a support group that began at the Thunder Bay Correctional Centre in 1988.

"I felt the presence of our grandfathers and grandmothers during the pipe ceremony, which was another experience that left me with a greater self-awareness and respect for the Native cultural practices. I have a better understanding of where I came from and who I am and where I belong in this world," wrote the inmate.

The letter to the community paper in Northern Ontario was open about the spirituality found within prison walls, yet, in 1999, we still hear about Aboriginal inmates across the country who are denied the opportunity to practice their spiritual and cultural ceremonies.

"I have witnessed ... the changes in attitude of some of the inmates who have participated in the program," wrote the Native Sons' member. "It has provided inmates with a new outlook and a new way of life and gives them the tools for a chance of a better and more positive lifestyle."

The Native Sons' mission statement explained the group as a self-help program for individuals who wish to gain back the knowledge of their culture, to find and promote a physical and spiritual sense of well-being, and to strive to learn about themselves and each other. Paul Indian, the Native Inmate Liaison Worker who meets with Native Sons, sees the benefits from the spiritual healing promoted by the group.

The program is "culturally relevant" and "supports the needs of those who are incarcerated," he said. "The rate of recidivism has been reduced for people who have taken part in this program."

The program resulted from a request from the inmates, Indian said.

"They felt they should have a circle for sharing and the program grew from there. We started with one feather and one blade of sweetgrass," he says. "Now we have our own bundles, a sacred drum and a sweatlodge where we hold cleansing ceremonies."

Members of the Native Sons participate in sweatlodge and smudging ceremonies, and learn to drum. Traditional language is used as much as possible at meetings with translations provided. For the most part, the group initiates feasts and events rather than having them organized by the authorities.

They have a good working relationship with the local superintendent. Indian said the freedom afforded the Native Sons is well in advance of other Canadian institutions.

The inmates "want to lead lives free of drugs and alcohol and incorporate new-found meaning into daily activities," said Indian. "Once the door is opened to spirituality it can become a way of life rather than a program; a gift from the Creator."

Indian has seen many of those who participated in the program go on to complete their education and do well.