The Rocky Mountain Métis Association (RMMA) has received a grant for events meant to support people who have experienced trauma.
RMMA President Jeff Crozier says the events will focus on women, children and 2SLGBTQIA+ people.
“Traditionally, especially in our Métis communities, there has not been a lot done with these individuals, so we’re ecstatic that the B.C. government chose us to receive this grant,” said Crozier.
“We can actually use this grant money to build community with traumatized women, youth and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals.”
B.C. officials say the RMMA will receive $27,250 as part of the Giving Voice project.
“Gender-based violence disproportionately affects Indigenous women and girls in communities across the province,” said Barb Ward-Burkitt, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation’s Advisory Council on Indigenous Women chair.
“This latest round of Giving Voice funding is supporting meaningful initiatives that foster healing and promote safety for Indigenous women and girls, and empower change at a community level.”
The 2024-25 Giving Voice initiative was funded through the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence.
“Giving Voice has supported thousands of people through community-led healing that uplifts the voices of Indigenous people and provides safe, culturally specific spaces for survivors, their families and communities on the path to addressing the impacts of violence and trauma,” said Kelli Paddon, Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity.
Crozier says the RMMA events will likely focus on group activities.
“One of the ideas we have is around giving back to the community. So we’re going to create a beading circle or moccasin-making circle and teach the women some of the traditional artisan skills of our Métis people,” said Crozier.
“It’s mostly going to be a safe space for people to come and share. We’ll have facilitators and councillors to engage and help people work things out.”
More details on the local events will be announced in the future and you can find more information here.
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