Oskâpêwisak / Traditional Helpers

Oskâpêwisak/Traditional Helpers

Data to policy and practice sub-committee – Research Project: Indigenous Evaluation Process

This research project emerged through the questions posed by ON-NEIHR Elder Pauline Shirt, with regards to our traditional practices of evaluation. The navigation of the team is led by Elder Pauline Shirt, and consists of three main researchers. All three consider themselves Traditional Helpers (oskâpêwisak). Through Indigenous ways of knowing we will look at this knowledge transfer; exploring the questions; what is a Traditional Helper? Who becomes a Traditional Helper? This session will focus in on the role of a Helper to Elders/Traditional Teachers/Educators. Looking at how this relationship is seeded, nurtured and strengthened; to where it can continue to flourish and grow.

BIOS:
Julia Harper – Kwe/Her/SheWoman Singing in the East, Bear Clan, Cree/Anishinaabe-Kwe, Treaty Six (Saddle Lake Reserve)Oskâpêwis – Educator, Researcher

Julia was born in Toronto, she was raised from birth in the Three Fires Society Midewiwin Lodge. She is a Water Walker and Land Protector. She holds her first level Reiki. She is a multi-disciplinary artist and holistic health practitioner, who lives and works in the Simcoe County region.

Luana Harper-Shirt - Kwe/She/HerLight Smiling Woman, Lynx Clan, Anishnaabe/Nehiyaw Iskwew

Originally from Treaty 6 territory. She is a mother of two and currently lives in the Simcoe region. She is an indigenous cultural knowledge holder, curriculum writer and educator. Luana is a classically trained visual artist, Chartered herbalist and Indigenous language curriculum programmer. She continually strives to bring awareness of Indigenous Ways of knowing, highlighting women's holistic health and wellness, Indigenous language advocacy, arts and strength of the land and our traditional medicines.

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