First Nations Dialogue

Meeting with the First Nations Council by Ashley Faintuch, Chair of Communications

On Saturday July 17, some Canadian Federation of Jewish Students (CFJS) leaders met with the Assembly of First Nations National Youth Council (AFNNYC) in Winnipeg. Both CFJS and AFNNYC left the table with positive thoughts and increased education.

Seeing as our meeting was on Shabbat, we explained Judaism the meaning and importance of Shabbat and sang songs along with a mini Kiddish. This led to the First Nations Elder, Billy Two Rivers, picking up on similarities and explaining multiple shared values and commonalities. The youth from both groups felt comfortable amongst each other and friendships were formed; this is a solid foundation for a new and exciting relationship. CFJS leaders look forward to welcoming the AFNNYC at our leadership retreat at the end of August. At the end of the day the CFJS leaders felt enlightened and inspired by the youths dedication to their traditions, culture and future success of AFNNYC.