Saturday April 21 – Cindy Blackstock speaks in Owen Sound

Powerful advocate for First Nations children
From Georgian Triangle Transition – March 31 2012 – Celebrated First Nations activist Cindy Blackstock is coming to speak in Owen Sound on Saturday, April 21st 2012, at Georgian Shores United Church from 2-4pm.

A powerful voice for justice and member of the Gitksan Nation, Dr. lackstock has fought for more than 20 years for the rights of First Nations Children.  Featured on CBC’s Trailbreakers, she states: There are currently over 22,500 First Nations children in the care of child welfare authorities. That is roughly three times the number in residential schools at the height of that regime in the 1940s.
Executive Director of the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada, Dr. Blackstock champions “Jordan’s Principle”, to resolve jurisdictional disputes between First Nation children and government services, and “Shannen’s Dream”, continuing the work Attawapiskat teenager Shannen Koostachin began before her tragic death, calling for equality in education for all Canadian children.
The leading child welfare advocate is in demand as keynote speaker here and abroad, and participates on United Nations’ committees and forums on indigenous issues. Among her many honours, Dr.Blackstock received the Canadian Association of Social Workers Outstanding National Service Award and the prestigious Healthway Indigenous Scholar Fellowship for her international work. She teaches at the University of Alberta.
All are welcome from elders to youngsters, to come and hear this dynamic crusader’s message, and to attend the reception. The M’Wikwedong Singers will take part in the event, at 947 Fourth Avenue East.
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