Building Connections, Sharing Stories.
October was a quieter month for Stardale Women's Group, but no less meaningful.
On October 15, Stardale partnered with the Brass Buffalo Trading Post in Longview, Alberta, to present The Road: An Evening of Storytelling, Cultural Teaching & Conversation.
The gathering brought community members together for an evening of film, performance and open discussion about the realities facing Indigenous women and girls, including violence, missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, residential schools and intergenerational trauma.
The evening began with an opening prayer led by Elder Wanda First Rider, followed by a screening of The Road and performances of songs and drumming by Stardale's young women.
Following the film, the women shared their perspectives and answered questions from the audience.
One of the evening's meaningful conversations centred on generational change. As young women who did not directly experience residential schools, they spoke about the lasting effects on their families and communities. They also discussed mental health and acknowledged the supports available to their generation that were not always accessible to those who came before them.
The conversation also turned to the realities of violence and abuse in rural communities, where geographic isolation, limited services and concerns about privacy can make seeking help particularly difficult.
Guest speaker Sherry Elliott, a civilian member of the Calgary Police Service Indigenous Unit, spoke about available supports for people experiencing violence and abuse. Community members also contributed their own knowledge, sharing valuable information about local resources and avenues for assistance.
This exchange was an important part of the evening, demonstrating how community conversations can move beyond awareness to help people connect with practical support.
The audience was engaged and supportive throughout, contributing to an atmosphere of openness, respect and shared learning.
For Stardale, gatherings like this reflect the organization's next chapter. Young women who once participated in its programs are now stepping forward as emerging leaders, sharing their experiences, cultural traditions and perspectives with communities beyond Calgary.
Our sincere thanks to Elder Wanda First Rider, Sherry Elliott, Risa Fritz and the Brass Buffalo Trading Post, and everyone who helped make the evening possible
Honouring Indigenous Veterans
November 8 marks National Indigenous Veterans Day, recognizing the service and sacrifices of First Nations, Inuit and Métis veterans.
As we remember their contributions, we also acknowledge the discrimination and inequalities many faced upon returning home. Their stories are an important part of Canada's history and deserve to be remembered and shared with future generations.
At Stardale, we see the same importance in the work of our young women, who are sharing their experiences, learning from previous generations and helping build understanding within their communities.
Learn more about Indigenous Veterans
Invite Stardale to Your Community
Stardale's emerging leaders are sharing their stories, cultural knowledge and lived experiences with audiences across Calgary and beyond.
Through film screenings, storytelling, drumming and open conversations, they invite audiences to learn, ask questions and gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous experiences, both past and present.
From schools and workplaces to conferences and community gatherings, Stardale welcomes opportunities to connect, share perspectives and build understanding.