North Shore Tribal Council aims to reclaim Anishinabe control over child welfare services with a new approach.
Officials with the Council say they’re initiating a multi-year initiative called Koognaasewin, (COG-knaw-win).
Lead researcher Sarah Jackson says back in April 2017 the initiative became a fully mandated child welfare agency under Ontario with the council passing a resolution in October 2018 focusing on the critical need for Anishinabek self-determination in this area.
She adds the resolution paved the path for a new Child Welfare Law, meticulously crafted to reflect the unique cultural tapestry and social fabric of the North Shore communities.
She adds Elders, youth, community leaders, and practitioners are vital contributors, shaping a framework that truly resonates with the values and expectations of the North Shore First Nations.
The council is now in the process of collaborating with numerous organizations to create a collaborative, holistic approach to implementing the new initiative.
Jackson adds the project stretches through to fiscal year 2025-2026, and community participation will be crucial with regular quarterly progress reports released throughout the member First Nations.
For more on the initiative visit KOOGNAASEWIN IN 2 MINUTES – YouTube KOOGNAASEWIN IN 2 MINUTES
