Caring for Elders
The “Caring for Elders” initiative by the Anishinabek Nation underscores the vital importance of protecting the rights and well-being of our Elders, who are deeply revered in our communities for their cultural and spiritual significance. This initiative adopts a proactive approach to address the numerous challenges Elders encounter, aiming to improve their safety, financial stability, and overall quality of life.
Elders often face significant barriers in accessing adequate services and resources, including legal education, support, and assistance. These challenges are amplified within First Nations communities due to systemic obstacles, insufficient funding, and the complexities of varying jurisdictions and laws, such as federal laws that may take precedence on-reserve.
In Anishinaabe culture, our Elders are highly respected, yet they remain a marginalized group with unmet high-level needs, exacerbated by age, health issues, geographical isolation, and limited income. Statistics indicate a growing elderly population within the Anishinabek Nation, highlighting the urgent need for targeted support.
To address these needs, this justice initiative will provide Anishinabek First Nation Elders with a comprehensive booklet and a series of educational videos. These resources will offer education and awareness on legal matters that may directly impact them, such as elder abuse, wills and estates, and matrimonial real property law, with a focus on how these issues pertain specifically to First Nations contexts. Additionally, the materials will include valuable information and contact details for legal services and supports, ensuring our Elders have access to the assistance they need now and in the future.
Resources:
Caring for our Elders Workbook
Caring for our Elders video series:
