Woven Spirit | Podcast Episode 2
Episode Two: Weaving Resilience with Bruce Allan
In this episode of "Woven Spirit, Threads of Wisdom," host Teka Desjarlais welcomes Bruce Allan from the Stellat’en First Nation to the podcast. Bruce shares his profound insights on the influence of intergenerational relationships in building resilient communities and explores the importance of preserving traditional ceremonies such as potlatch.
Featuring Guest Bruce Allan
Ts’umusyoo Beaver clan, Stellat’en First Nation
Bruce is an educator who has taught in Elementary and Secondary schools and has taught at the College of New Caledonia since 1995 in First Nations Studies and currently Aboriginal Studies. The topics range from culture, history, residential schools, current events in indigenous political events, and more recently worked on developing materials for a new course at CNC. The focus of the course at CNC has been elders in the classroom
I have worked with the various aboriginal agencies in Prince George including Carrier Sekani Family Services (CSFS); Carrier Sekani Tribal Council (CSTC); Prince George Native Learning Centre; Prince George Nechako Aboriginal Employment Training Association (PGNAETA) and the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC). Presented on topics of drumming, traditional Balhats and traditional games such as Lahal.
Bruce is an intergenerational survivor through his grandmother and father who attended the Lejac Indian Residential School near Fraser Lake. Bruce also attended Lejac from 1967 to 1974. Bruce has worked with IRSSS from 2006 to 2013 as a Regional Health Support Worker in Prince George. Bruce also worked on the “Healing the Healers’” AHF project from 2000-2003. Bruce is a father and a grandfather.
Bruce speaks on his personal journey at Indian Day School and the lasting impact of colonial systems on Indigenous communities. He passionately discusses the critical role of youth in carrying forward ancestral names and traditions to nurture cultural continuity and resilience.
Furthermore, Bruce emphasizes the profound connection between tradition and community wellness, sharing heartfelt stories and lessons from his own experiences. This episode offers a lens into how self-care and spirituality play a vital role in navigating the challenging landscapes of healing from historical trauma.
Listeners will appreciate Bruce's perspective on how to initiate community healing through compassion, storytelling, and recognizing traditional rites of passage. Join us in this enlightening conversation that highlights the enduring spirit and wisdom of Indigenous cultures.
To everyone tuning in, remember that this is a journey of shared growth and understanding. If you find yourself affected by the stories shared, please reach out to our available crisis support. Thank you for being part of "Woven Spirit, Threads of Wisdom."
If you find yourself affected by the stories shared, please reach out to our available crisis line. Support is available 24/7 at 1-800-721-0066.
This project was undertaken with the financial support of Parks Canada / Ce projet a été réalisé avec l'appui financier de Parcs Canada.