Canada & Big Grassy Launch Cultural Space, Shelter Project

Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

Support line for those affected by missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ people:

For immediate emotional assistance, call 1-844-413-6649. You can also access long-term health support services, such as mental health counselling, community-based emotional support, cultural services, and some travel costs to see Elders and traditional healers.

December 21, 2022 - Big Grassy First Nation, Morson, Ontario - Crown−Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

Today, Chief Lynn Indian from the Big Grassy First Nation and the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Crown−Indigenous Relations, announced $1.8 million in funding provided through the Cultural Spaces in Indigenous Communities Program, for the construction of a new cultural space building.

The new Big Grassy First Nation Cultural Space and Shelter for Women Building will be used as a shelter for those in danger, a healing space, and a gathering area for the community to host cultural and language programs. The gathering and healing areas will be used for prayers and land-based teachings, and will have a training area for courses and a display area for local artists. The building will also provide a shelter for persons at risk to stay, in the short or long-term. The site will be secure and will provide 24 hour emergency access for members experiencing domestic violence and other forms of trauma that require an immediate response.

Investing in cultural spaces is crucial to addressing the root causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. This transformative program also supports Indigenous Peoples in reclaiming their identity as part of their journey towards self-determination, which is a crucial step in advancing reconciliation and building relationships between Indigenous Peoples, governments, and all Canadians.

Investing in cultural spaces is crucial to addressing the root causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. This transformative program also supports Indigenous Peoples in reclaiming their identity as part of their journey towards self-determination, which is a crucial step in advancing reconciliation and building relationships between Indigenous Peoples, governments, and all Canadians.

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