Team feature: Roy Ettawacappo
LANGUAGE, CULTURE & LAND-BASED LEARNING AT NORWAY HOUSE CREE NATION, MB
Norway House Cree Nation is one of the largest Indigenous communities in Manitoba. Here, Spirit North has established strong relationships with educators and community members, including Elders and Knowledge Keepers, to offer diverse winter programs and enriching summer camps.
Last summer, program leader Roy Ettawacappo established a new Cree Camp as part of Spirit North’s summer activities. The three-week program focuses on teaching youth Cree language and traditions while participating in fun, land-based activities.
Roy Ettawacappo.
Roy sees the need for more play in young people and often encourages the chance for youth to practice their language during fun games and activities in the programs he facilitates. This generates greater focus from the youth during Elder teachings where they share more of the language and history through pictures and storytelling. The kids are excited to see and learn from the Elders and participate in many traditional ceremonial practices.
During the three weeks of Cree Camp, youth are exposed to many land-based activities, such as canoeing, gardening, and nature walks where they get to see and learn about the uses for and historical importance of many trees and berries. During the camp, they are also encouraged to further their skills in sewing moccasins and beading.
Roy is a role model for the kids, one who they deeply trust, and they often want to know more about his life and the opportunities he has earned through sports.
“I wouldn’t have been anywhere without sport,” reflects Roy. “It earned me friendships, taught me about giving respect and how to earn it back, and it taught me about love.”
Through his personal experiences, and as a program leader, Roy encourages young people to embrace their culture and be hopeful for the future and the possibilities it holds.
“Spirit North is really good at helping kids have hope in life,” says Roy.
