Former Cowessess First Nation Chief, Cadmus Delorme, visits Chinook’s Edge. Indigenous Coordinator Carolynne Muncer presents a dream catcher that was handmade specifically for him. (Chinook's Edge School Division)

By Chinook's Edge School Division

National Day For Truth And Reconciliatio

Cadmus Delorme, former Chief of Cowessess First Nation, visits Chinook’s Edge

Sep 29, 2024 | 9:54 AM

The former Chief of the Cowessess First Nation in southern Saskatchewan, shared his insights about Truth and Reconciliation with Chinook’s Edge leaders and staff on September 18.

In a meeting with principals, vice principals, senior division leaders and some school board trustees, and later with division office staff members and Indigenous lead teachers, Cadmus Delorme spoke about the journey of Truth and Reconciliation in Canada.

“Think of it as a math equation,” says Delorme. “The denominator is truth. The truth comes from our brain. The numerator is reconciliation. We lead reconciliation with the heart.”

When moving forward, Delorme shared that in Indigenous teachings, it is important to “show your heart before asking for the hand”, meaning it is important to share a story before asking something of people.

Delorme compared the two world views, of being Canadian and being Indigenous, to two canoes that were always meant to have equal value and sail along on a parallel path in Canada. Through various actions in Canada’s history, the Indigenous canoe has not moved forward at the same pace as the Canadian canoe.

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“Reconciliation is about aligning the two canoes,” says Delorme. He shared that his goal and motivation is to help Canada move to a future where that is reality. Delorme acknowledged there are challenges ahead, but reminded the group, “we are only nine years into this journey of reconciliation,” and encouraged the leaders to keep working towards the goal despite the challenges. “The greatest warrior is the one who brings peace,” he says.

“Chinook’s Edge bringing Cadmus to speak is the icing on a cake that was already beautiful,” said Elder John Sinclair, who attended the session. “I told Cadmus this is the first time I’ve heard the message delivered in such a positive and understandable way. It gives me so much hope for the future and for our children. ”

Karyn Barber, Associate Superintendent, Chinook’s Edge, heard Delorme speak at a provincial gathering for school division leaders.

She says, “I knew he had a message that would positively impact Chinook’s Edge work in meeting the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and our journey in reconciliation. Cadmus’ message inspired us to continue learning and leading this work, even when it is challenging, with hope and optimism. We are very lucky to have had time with this kind, humble and wise Chief and national leader of reconciliation.”

Barber says, “Cadmus’ message of grace, learning, and a path forward together was powerful and will have a lasting impact on the work we do as a division. Heart, then hands. Thank you, Cadmus.”

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