Join NIL TU,O in taking action to ensure Jordan’s Principle is fully implemented.
On May 10 we celebrate The Canadian Human Rights Tribunal’s call to fully implement Jordan’s Principle on May 10, 2016.
Each year on May 10, we honour Jordan River Anderson and invite everyone to “Bear Witness” to ensure Jordan’s Principle is fully implemented so Indigenous children in Canada have access to all the services they need.
Jordan, a young boy from Norway House Cree Nation, unnecessarily spent two years, and eventually died in a Manatoba hospital due to disagreements between the federal government and the province about who was obligated to provide services to him and his family.
According to the Canadian government, “Jordan’s Principle makes sure all First Nations children living in Canada can access the products, services and supports they need, when they need them. Funding can help with a wide range of health, social and educational needs, including the unique needs that First Nations Two-Spirit and LGBTQQIA children and youth and those with disabilities may have. Jordan’s Principle is named in memory of Jordan River Anderson.”
Join NIL TU,O in acknowledging this important day. Ways to participate include:
1. Celebrate with Spirit Bear
May 10 is also Spirit Bear’s birthday. The Spirit Bear picture books and films are a great way for the whole family to mark Bear Witness Day and learn about Jordan’s Principle in an age-appropriate fashion.
2. Spread awareness
Everyone is encouraged to post photos with their favorite teddy bears or other stuffed animal friends using the hashtags #JordansPrinciple and #BearWitnessDay. This will help others learn about the importance of Jordan’s Principle.
You could also help your children host a teddy bear tea party, or take your teddy bears to work or school.
NIL TU,O staff will acknowledge the day by bringing teddy bears to work to bear witness.
3. Take action
Write or call your federal elected official urging them to mark Bear Witness Day and to implement the Spirit Bear Plan.
Together, we can honour Jordan’s memory and ensure the safety and dignity of each and every child of the Beecher Bay / Scianew, Pauquachin, Tsartlip, Songhees, Tsawout, Tseycum And T’sou-ke First Nations and beyond.
To stay up to date on this story and others, please subscribe to our newsletter.
