A Youth in Care Connects to his Family Traditions

In Fort Chipewyan, a young man in care experienced a series of cultural and community connections. One specific moment this young man, and the community members supporting him, will never forget was when they were out on the land together.

The older community men had invited this young man to go on a hunt with them. This opportunity was exciting, as it was the young man's first hunt. He was ready to spend time learning the land and cultural ways of surviving and hunting.

Throughout the hunt, the young man was attentive. He was looking forward to having an opportunity to shoot his first caribou, with the support of the men who had invited him on this trip. When the opportunity arose, the young man did, indeed, shoot his first caribou. This was a moment of pride for all those on the trip.

The caribou was shared with the community, including the young man's family and Elders. For his bravery and success, the young man was later given a ribbon shirt.