ABORIGINAL SPIRITUAL JOURNEY
CALLING HOME CEREMONY
ESSAY CONTEST
CANADA=S ABORIGINAL YOUTH
An opportunity to participate in the
ABORIGINAL SPIRITUAL JOURNEY
October 25 to November 5, 2005
Canada=s Aboriginal Veterans, in conjunction with Indian and Northern Affairs Canada and Veterans Affairs Canada, will undertake a special Aboriginal Spiritual Journey to the Battlefields of Europe to call home the Spirits of our fallen Warriors. The Journey will comprise: Second World War Veterans; Aboriginal Traditional Spiritual Leaders; National Aboriginal Leaders; members of the Canadian Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
A representative group of thirteen Youth will accompany the Official Delegation to Europe. First Nation, Inuit and Métis youth, between 16 and 18 years of age, who are interested in taking part in this special opportunity are requested to submit a written essay of 300 to 500 words in length.
ESSAY QUESTION
Why is it important for Aboriginal youth to remember and honour the sacrifices and achievements of Aboriginal soldiers who served their country during times of war, military conflict and peace?
Deadline for submissions is Monday, August 15, 2005. All entries must be postmarked by that date and sent by mail to:
ABORIGINAL SPIRITUAL JOURNEY
Youth Representative Selection Committee
C/O INDIAN AND NORTHERN AFFAIRS CANADA
10 Wellington Street, Room 5B-04
Ottawa, ON, K1A 0H4
Entries can also be sent via e-mail to
ABORIGINAL SPIRITUAL JOURNEY
CALLING HOME CEREMONY
ESSAY CONTEST
INSTRUCTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
Name: YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY.
Date of Birth: YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY.
Nation / Community: YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY.
Address: YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY.
YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY.
Phone Number: YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY.
E-mail: YYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY.
Your essay and this form must be submitted along with a copy of your birth certificate and Aboriginal Status / Citizenship / Membership card. Also required is a written recommendation from an Elder / Senator / Traditional Leader of your Nation / Community or Teacher supporting your participation in the Aboriginal Spiritual Journey.
Your essay may be greatly enhanced by interviewing an Aboriginal Veteran or Ranger in your community or by conducting research using the Veterans Affairs Canada Web site at www.vac-acc.gc.ca.
Participation in this Journey will require that you be in good health and that you be drug and alcohol free.
Deadline for submissions is Monday, August 15, 2005 and all entries must be postmarked by that date.