Acclaimed Elder Brings Message of Healing

This article is over 10 years old.

BRANDON, MB – A nationally-recognized First Nations Elder will speak this week at Brandon University about the healing of individuals, families and communities affected by the legacy of colonization in Canada.

Gerry Oleman, 2013 (web)Gerry Oleman, a member of the St’at’imc Nation from Tsal’alh (Shalalth, BC), has been involved as a change agent for First Nations communities and agencies since 1976, providing counselling and leadership on the local and national levels.  He has facilitated more than 600 workshops in Canada and the United States.

“I came to the realization that all First Nations in Canada have the same suffering and challenges,” says Oleman. “All challenges are man-made therefore they can be healed and fixed using our traditions and laws that worked for us for thousands of years. “

Dr. Bruce Strang, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, says Oleman will speak to students in the University’s new Clinical Specialization in Native Studies program, the only undergraduate degree offered in North America linking aboriginal healing and traditional knowledge with a counselling focus.

“Elder Oleman has a unique perspective on healing that complements our unique Clinical Specialization program,” says Dr. Strang. “We are honoured that he will be sharing with our community.”

The public is invited to meet and hear Oleman on Friday, October 18th, from 2-4 pm in BU’s He Oyate Tawapi ceremony room (Room 141, Health Studies Building). Brandon University, founded in 1899, promotes excellence in teaching, research, creation and scholarship; educating students so that they can make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders.

-30-

For more information, please contact:
Dr. Bruce Strang
Dean, Faculty of Arts
204-727-9780
irvinek@brandonu.ca
Glen Kirby
Communications Officer
204-727-9762
kirbyg@brandonu.ca

Contact

To receive any BU publication in an alternate format please contact Communications@BrandonU.ca

About BU

Success is built at Brandon University. Our growing, progressive campus welcomes a diverse and inclusive community that combines proud tradition with shared ambition. Through our excellence in teaching, research, and scholarship, we educate students to make a meaningful difference as engaged citizens and leaders. Join us at BrandonU.ca.