School gives back to Siksika

Times Reporter        

 

When fierce weather hit Southern Alberta last June, many people were devastated in some capacity.  Flooding caused extensive damage to many parts of the province and none more devastating than parts of the Siksika Nation. The extensive damage from the flood washed out the resort and many houses that the First Nations residents had lived in. Many that lived on that reserve felt agony and the pain of what they witnessed in the flooding. The nearby HD Cartwright School decided to take matters into their own hands by donating clothing and food to those affected. Principal Teresa Martin was behind the idea and was rewarded for her efforts at a ceremony held at the Blackfoot Crossing Historical Site on June 19.  Martin was awarded with a colorful Indian trade blanket and was presented with a symbolic feather from Community Resource Worker Randy D. Alexander. 

“I am very humbled by the experience almost to the point of being embarrassed because they are so appreciative of the work of so many people,” said Martin. 

The initiative was started a couple of years before the floods occurred and continued on by her students.  

“Jaime Dee Peterson started it with her kids and just something that was so strong and supported by the Siksika and CBE to promote character education,” said Martin. She admits, though, that it was just doing a deed for people that were in need.  

“It was not anything extraordinary, it was just people helping their neighbours.” 

Alexander was really humbled of the youths’ efforts in helping the recovery of the Siksika and celebrating Aboriginal Week. “Aboriginal Week gives us a chance for us to promote and show our culture and different nationalities,” said Alexander. To be an Aboriginal is an honor to many in this nation but what the title entails can be harsh for many that live on the reserve. 

“I proud to say that I am an Aboriginal, First Nation but it is also a hard life when things do not go your way,” said Alexander. 

In his view the youth being involved is a real positive for many, as it is motivating and makes everyone around them feel more confident.

“It gives them a chance to see what really happen and to know where we are rebuilding and to not take things for granted,” said Alexander. 

The students were able to play a role in aiding the victims that needed it most and Principal Martin could not be any more proud of their accomplishment.