Indigenous Learning at the Library

The Edmonton Public Library (EPL) has a few streams of programming that attempt to incorporate Indigenous learning, reconciliation and reach across cultural barriers. They are worth checking out if you’re interested in learning more about important Edmonton and Treaty 6 history, helping your children learn more about Indigenous culture and as part of your own reconciliation efforts.

The library hosts the Amiskwaciy History Series each month. The series is an Aboriginal-lead grassroots initiative aimed at creating awareness regarding the often-untold Indigenous history of the Edmonton area. It’s usually hosted at the Whitemud Crossing branch of the EPL.

In April, the EPL announced a new Elder in Residence program. You can connect with Elder Wilson Bearhead one-on-one, if you wish (check the EPL’s link for details, including those of protocol). Bearhead is a cultural educator and member of the Wabamun Lake Indian Band in Treaty 6 territory. The Elder is on site two days each week, one at EPL’s Abbottsfield-Penny McKee branch and one at the downtown location (currently in Enterprise Square).

The library also hosts a weekly Cree Language Conversation Circle. This is put on with the Canadian Native Friendship Centre and it rotates around the EPL’s branches across the city. This is a drop-in program where you can brush up on your Cree or learn some conversational words and phrases.

There are also other events, programming and workshops that take place throughout the month and at various EPL branch locations, some of which is good for families to do together.

Editor’s note: This is an updated version of a story that ran in March 2017. We’ve swapped out details about Elder Wilson Bearhead speaking at that month’s Amiskwaciy History Series and included details about his appointment as the EPL’s new Elder in Residence.