One of the fiercest freedom fighters of our time was a warrior who coined one of the most profound statements of our time. It was Lakota Chief and Spiritual Leader Tatanka Iyotanka - Sitting Bull. At the height of the Indian Power movement he became the most powerful symbol of First Nations pride and fortitude. His eyes stared out at us intently across North America beseeching us with these words “let us put our minds together and see what life we can make for our children.”

It is one of the most profound statements and powerful image to rise out of the Indian empowerment movements. It has grown into a rallying cry that ever resonates within our political arenas on down to the self-governing institutions that today are rising up to meet that challenge. It invokes the spirit behind our movement, the movement tasked with the caring and nurturing of First Nations children, their families and our communities.

It is no wonder then to find when we ask our caregivers, “Who is the best symbol that truly represents the spirit and determination of their work with children on a day to day basis?” Invariably they stated emphatically it is a Koo Koo, or Kookum or Kooshee. It is an image of a wise old elder grandmother using Tatanka Iyotanka’s wise words and saying in her strongest voice, “let us put our minds together and see what life we can make for our children.”

Since the emergence of the First Nations Agencies in the early 80’s, all of these caregivers through to child care workers have held fast to this provocative wisdom behind a guiding image. With the onset of the Southern First Nations Network of Care it is what inspires all of us! From caregivers, to child care workers to supervisors, to Executive Directors and to the Authorities it is a deep insight that guides and drives us all today. It is in the spirit of that grandmother and all the ancestors that have gone before us that we now embark on a new journey that will return the care and nurturing back to our families and communities.

It is a unique partnership with all of the Agencies under the Southern Authority where the collective minds have come together to see what life we can make for our children and in return their families. We have started that by working alongside and with our CFS Agencies. Together we hope to make a difference in the quality of life of First Nations children by ensuring the protection of children. We can do this together by:

• providing safe homes with responsible caregivers
• promoting the wellness of families
• and strengthening our First Nations and communities

These are strong statements driven by a strong commitment by everyone. The journey begins now with a clear vision and common mission reflected in the eyes of our elders. By our actions and commitment we know that we can bring a smile to their faces.

With that we welcome you to the First Nations of Southern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority website. We have assembled a dedicated staff ready to assist, collaborate and share their expertise and with you. Together we believe through our collective memory and dedicated mindset we can, are and will continue to make a difference in the lives of our children, families and community.

Meegwetch,

Elsie Flette
CEO
Southern First Nations Network of Care