Thread by @RachelAnnSnow

My late father never said he was a survivor, he said he was an escapee of residential schools.

We were raised to believe being Indian was a gift and because of this we were empowered to stand for our people.

When we were kids we’d go to the states to visit my mom’s family (she

was from Yuma Arizona).

Once we stopped in Lethbridge for the night and my dad tried to get a room where the sign said vacancy. No rooms he was told.

We drove off and my dad called from a pay phone. “Yes we have a room”, he was told.

Then he called the police to come back to

that same motel and keep the peace so we could get a room.

I still remember my mom whispering to be quick and get inside because they didn’t want us here.

My mom was cautious. My dad stood his ground.

Today, I remember these times and I walk proudly. I am on the land of my

forefathers, the land gifted to MY people. I am not beaten. I am just starting to add my voice, to the song of this land.

It goes on with the hearts of our people - all of our ancestors speak in the rustle of leaves, in the swoosh of an eagle, in the rushing sound of water and

and in the howling noise of wind.

We are still here and we will always be part of this land.

#IyaheNakoda #FirstNations