Standing Together: Amplifying Youth Voices

Standing Together: Amplifying Youth Voices

On May 30, 2023, Matriarchs who were gathered for the third Matriarch’s Voices working group in Prince George invited youth to join their next session. This invitation called for youth to use their voices to help guide the development of new child and family legislation; to be leaders for the next generation of Carrier and Sekani children and youth. In preparation for their Matriarch’s Voices debut, the Youth Advisory Council (YAC) led a discussion on themes for the next Matriarch’s Voices and an image to be used as representation of youth’s role in the jurisdiction journey.

Based in Prince George, the YAC is an empowering space for youth in care. Youth work together to build leadership skills, share and reflect on their experiences, and contribute to shaping youth services.

CSFS Jurisdiction and Youth Services approached the YAC with a series of character images to consider for the upcoming Matriarch’s Voices. At the discussion table, youth shared that while they enjoyed the artistry of each image, there was something bothering them. In all the artwork, the characters stood alone.

“None of [the images] represented YAC or youth today. They didn’t give the vibe that youth are in it together. All of the images were really lonely,” YAC member Tum Tum.C shared.

This reflection spurred a new discussion: how do our youth see themselves? And what do they need to achieve their fullest potential? It did not take long for the YAC to centre the conversation around ‘togetherness’. This theme was rooted in thoughts of community and support, specifically youth supporting one another through the successes and challenges of life. As Tum Tum.C and Kash both shared, being there for one another is critical to growing up safely and being able to thrive. Moreover, this network of support strengthens youth as leaders who are on their way to being role models for the youth of tomorrow.

When asked about what youth need to lead happy and healthy lives, Tum Tum.C and Kash agreed connection to home is crucial for youth in care.

“They need connection with all their family on the reserve they were in before. More connection to their people, their friends,” Kash shared.

“Getting back home. Cause when you are out there, you try to visit with family as well, and try to understand the culture,” Tum Tum.C added.

In addition to spearheading the creation of new artwork, youth also provided ideas for the next Matriarch’s Voices including opening the event with smudging, working on a beading project, and having fun interactive games for youth and Matriarchs to enjoy together. While the event has been postponed, the YAC remain excited to participate and, as Kash added, are looking forward to sharing presentations and ideas with the Matriarchs.

The transition of authority for child and family matters to member Nations involves everyone – Elders, Matriarchs, parents, youth, future generations – and everyone is in it together. With youth joining the next Matriarch’s Voices session, new perspectives will be incorporated into the discussion and ultimately, into the future of child welfare laws for CSFS member Nations.

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