Quebec Cree leaders move to adapt youth services to the ‘Eeyou way of life’ – CBC

Sep 14, 2023

Cree Youth Protection Commission to travel territory gathering stories and solutions

The Quebec Cree nation wants to change youth protection laws and services to adapt them to  Eeyou values, traditions and culture.

On Sept. 7, officials launched the aah chishtipistihch-uschiniichisiu sikischaayimuwiniyiu or Cree Youth Protection Commission, an extensive, several months-long consultation process to gather ideas on how to change youth protection and eventually the youth criminal justice system.

“What we are looking for are new solutions. New ideas on how we can change the law, but change the system too … [to change] youth protection to integrate Cree culture, Cree content,” said Bertie Wapachee, the chairperson of the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay.

Wapachee said he hopes to commission will hear from everyone — elders, grandparents, parents, youth and children, as well as many of the Cree organizations, such as the Cree School Board, women’s association, youth council and the Eeyou Eenou Police Force, among others.

Read More: https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/north/cree-youth-protection-health-board-cindy-blackstock-1.6965793