Gaining a stronger cultural understanding of Indigenous Peoples

At CUPS we work directly with and support many people who are affected by the intergenerational trauma of experiences of Indigenous peoples in our country. Having an understanding and learning of the cultural background of the people we serve and how we can serve them better is vital. 

“It requires an in-depth understanding of the history, the people and who they are. We can’t expect Indigenous peoples to meet us in ways we understand, we need to meet them in ways they understand,” explains Wade Maude, Indigenous Relations Coordinator at CUPS. 

That continued focus of understanding and learning is one of the reasons CUPS is hosting an Indigenous Celebration Circle on June 21, National Indigenous Peoples Day. 

Indigenous Celebration Circle: June 21 

A showcase of Indigenous artists and businesses, CUPS is welcoming the community to come and connect with these individuals and service providers who will have their products and services on display. 

Taking place outdoors (rain or shine) from noon to 3 pm on the 21st at the Sunalta Community Association, this will be an afternoon to celebrate and share the vibrancy and sophistication of many Indigenous cultures of Southern Alberta and beyond. 

Many others from the social sector will also be joining us, including Kindred, Alpha House and many others. Open to the public, this event is an opportunity for the community to connect and engage with those in the Indigenous community and learn more about different cultures and history that directly make up the fabric of the country we live in today. 

Truth and reconciliation

“When it comes to truth and reconciliation, you can’t have reconciliation until people understand the truth,” reminds Wade. 

Events like the upcoming Celebration Circle on the 21st are ways to continue to give the larger community a space to understand the truth, to grasp the impact of the intergenerational trauma faced by many right here at home and the journey towards reconciliation. 

In the Spirit of acknowledgement and recognition of the truth. CUPS has a desire and responsibility to promote and commit to reconciliation and healing with Indigenous peoples. CUPS values dignity, healing, and accountability within our work, as we strive to build strong and resilient communities through wholistic and integrated care. 

CUPS respects and acknowledges the traditional territories, oral practices, and the history of the Blackfoot (Siksika, Piikani, and Kainai), the Tsuu T’ina (Sarcee), the Stoney Nakoda (Chiniki, Wesley, and Bearspaw), First Nations, and the Metis Nation (Region 3). We live, work, grow, play, and appreciate this beautiful territory as we are all treaty people.