Thirty years strong
Bent Arrow Celebrates Milestone with Cultural Events
SUBMISSION FROM BENT ARROW
It’s been 30 years since the Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society first opened its doors as a non-profit organization with a mission to support Indigenous youth.
Originally created to empower youth to walk proudly in both Indigenous and Western worlds, it has since grown into an all-encompassing organization that welcomes anyone who walks through its doors. With a holistic approach, they honour the diversity of Indigenous cultures and traditions to provide access to culture within Edmonton. From housing support to children’s development, Bent Arrow nourishes the entire family to become resilient, strong, and healthy.
“We see first hand the significant hurdles our community encounters in accessing essential supports and cultural services,” says Caleb Jacko, Cultural Connector at Bent Arrow. “There’s still a long way to go, but our goal of increasing the health of the community is vital to improving outcomes for youth, families, and individuals.”
To signify three decades of operations, Bent Arrow will be holding the following events for the community to come and celebrate:
Grand Opening of Ceremonial Building / Sweat lodge - June 18
This site will provide a safe space to hold ceremonies within the city. Sweat lodges are a way for people to heal, and healing is vital for future generations to have access to their culture and stand as a testament to reconciliation in action. For Indigenous Peoples, it represents the reclamation of ceremony — no longer hidden in secrecy, but proudly practiced.
Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day and Culture Camp - June 21-22
These two days will feature performances, teachings, activities, and crafts meant to strengthen community and educate all participants on Indigenous culture in a meaningful way.
Truth and Reconciliation Day - September 30
Truth and Reconciliation Day is dedicated to honouring the survivors of residential schools and acknowledging the historical and ongoing injustices that Indigenous communities face. To learn more on the details for this day, stay tuned for updates being released on Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society’s website and on their social media pages (@BentArrowYeg).
Beyond these events, Bent Arrow offers a wide range of services to support Indigenous families and the community at large. The success of its growth is deeply rooted in meaningful community involvement, partnerships, and the success of its participants.
Bent Arrow continues to grow and evolve. Its commitment to cultural connection, community support, and reconciliation remains unwavering. The opening of the Sweat lodge, National Indigenous Peoples Day and Culture Camp celebrations, and the observance of Truth and Reconciliation Day are a stark reminder that the ongoing efforts to uplift and empower Indigenous communities remain at the heart of the organization.
GRAND OPENING OF SWEAT LODGE
June 18, 1– 2 pm
ANNUAL NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY AND CULTURE CAMP June 21 & 22, 10 am – 1:30 pm
TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION DAY September 30
