First Nations group raises awareness for clean drinking water at Guelph schools
June 2, 2016
GUELPH, Ontario – Students are beading for change and learning more about the need for clean drinking water in First Nations communities.
On Thursday, members of Her Braids were at Centennial CVI and College Heights Secondary School, working with students in a beading workshop.
Her Braids is a small group of First Nations people from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg and Timiskaming First Nation that works to raise awareness about the need for clean drinking water and importance of protecting Earth’s water.
Both communities – like many First Nations communities – know what it’s like to live without access to clean drinking water. According to the group, 73 per cent of First Nations water systems are at high or medium risk. Health Canada says that as of March 31, 2016, there were 133 drinking water advisories in 89 First Nations communities (excluding British Columbia). Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg went without clean water for 15 years.
Her Braids is working to change these statistics.
The group makes and sells beaded pendants, to raise funds and awareness for clean drinking water. Her Braids also supports the Blue Dot Movement and encourages others to sign the petition that states that every Canadian deserves the right to a healthy environment. Ten per cent of Her Braids pendant proceeds go directly to the Blue Dot Movement.
Sunshine and Rob from Her Braids spoke to Upper Grand students today about the need for clean and safe drinking water in First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities. The group was also taken through a beading workshop, where students created colourful beaded pendants.
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For more information:
Heather Loney, Communications and Community Engagement Officer
Upper Grand District School Board
519-822-4420 ext.725
[email protected]
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