By: Nishita P. HYI Community Builders Volunteer
February 5, 2021
Halton Youth Share the Truth podcast about Indigenous Athletes, now on voicED radio EP 04 Taking a Look Into Indigenous Athletetics | voicEd
The 2021 Summer Olympics are still months away, when we’ll recognize athletes from various countries, however, the recognition of Indigenous athletes in our own country has been long overdue. Indigenous athletes often experience incredible difficulties concerning their cultural background. Though they remain as role models in society, individuals tend to discriminate against these athletes solely on their cultural upbringing. However, Indigenous athletes continue to exemplify honor, bravery and passion through sports. To advocate and spread awareness on the abilities and talents of these athletes across Canada, myself and my fellow Community Builders: Calls To Action members of the Halton Youth Initiative, have worked together to highlight Call to Action #87 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada which reads, “We call upon all levels of government, in collaboration with Aboriginal peoples, sports halls of fame, and other relevant organizations, to provide public education that tells the national story of Aboriginal athletes in history.”
As a way to approach this specific Call to Action, we as a group, created several infographics commemorating a few Indigenous athletes, who we think are inspirations through their hard work, ambition and determination. These infographics illustrate and communicate key details of the life challenges, accomplishments and perseverance of Alwyn Morris, Waneek Horn-Miller, Tom Longboat, Shirley and Sharon Firth, Carey Price, and Angela Chambers.
Our intentions through this project are to advocate for and recognize the Indigenous athletes in Canada who represent strength and talent. We hope to bring more awareness to individuals in our community about these Indigenous athletes and celebrate their contributions to our national history. Furthermore, through the display of Indigenous role models, we wish to inspire youth to attempt new challenges and achieve their goals, regardless of their cultural identities.
