Elders in Residence
The Elders in Residence program is an integral part of the Edmonton Public Library, promoting understanding and respect for Indigenous perspectives, cultures, and values. Elders provide support and encouragement to library patrons and offer a cultural connection through various programs and activities.
What is an Elder?
An Elder is both a title and a role. In English, an "Elder" refers to an older Indigenous person who acts as a surrogate grandmother or grandfather. In Indigenous languages, an "Elder" describes a respected public role in both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities that develops over time. Elders offer mentorship, guidance, and leadership, enforce cultural laws and protocols, and serve as caretakers and teachers.
Each Elder has unique knowledge and specialties; for example, one may conduct specific ceremonies while another may have expertise in plant medicine. Elders are integral to preserving and passing on cultural knowledge and traditions.
The Elders in Residence Role
Elders in Residence at EPL play a vital role in fostering cultural understanding and community connections. They offer one-on-one sessions to provide personalized guidance and support to individuals.
Elders lead and participate in various ceremonies, including Pipe Ceremonies and other cultural rituals, ensuring that these important traditions are an active part of the library's offerings.
Additionally, they share their extensive knowledge through a variety of programs and events. These include talking circles, where participants can learn about Indigenous cultures, protocols, and processes in a collaborative and respectful environment.
Through these activities, Elders in Residence help promote EPL’s mission of sharing expertise, information, technology, and space, enriching the lives of Edmontonians by creating opportunities for learning, connecting, and growing together.
Kokum Lorette Goulet
Thirty years ago, Kokum Lorette was given her Traditional name, Miskinâhk Iskwew (Turtle Woman), and she began her journey of walking the Red Road. Lorette was born in Edmonton; her mother was Métis from Calling Lake, and her father was from Thunder Bay. She is intuitive and empathetic and carries with her a legacy of love, kindness, and compassion. She has worked with Indigenous communities for over forty years and has learned much from many Elders and knowledge keepers who have enriched her life and teachings.
Kokum Lorette joins EPL to help support the community with her experience providing support to individuals and communities on their journeys of finding themselves through acceptance, care, and healing. She has worked with many communities and groups in the city of Edmonton, including Native Counselling Services of Alberta, Ben Calf Robe Society, Aboriginal Head Start program, NiGiNan Housing Ventures, and the non-profit Mâmawi Nîpawiwin Standing Together. Her heart is happy when she is supporting children and families.
Lorette has one son and many others who are children of her heart. She loves Mother Earth, children, laughter, and singing. Her heart is with her people, and she loves to use her gifts to help others.
Visit with Kokum Lorette
Kokum Lorette works out of PÎYÊSÎW WÂSKÂHIKAN in the Stanley A. Milner Library downtown every second Thursday starting June 27, 2024. Her visiting hours are:
- 1 - 3 p.m. for drop-ins
- 5 - 7 p.m. for pre-arranged visits
If you would like to request a pre-arranged visit with Kokum Lorette, please fill in this form - request a meeting - at least one week prior to the requested date.
Please note, that depending on the demand and capacity your prearranged meeting may not happen on your first choice of date or time. We will contact you to schedule another date/time or you are welcome to attend the drop in hours.
Elder Fred Campiou
Elder Fred Campiou, from Driftpile First Nation in Treaty 8 territory, grew up with resilience and strength. His family hid him to protect him from residential schools, and he was raised traditionally by his mother and grandfather. Though he lost his Cree-Algonquin language and culture in his early years, Fred reclaimed them through the teachings of his mother and grandfather, which became the foundation for his life's work in culture and recovery.
At just 21, Fred earned the right to be a ceremonial lodge keeper, showcasing his spiritual knowledge and leadership. He now carries several spiritual lodges, including the Sioux Yuipi ceremony, Sundance ceremony, Horse Dance lodge, Sioux Sweatlodge, Buffalo Robe healing ceremony, and Women's teachings passed down from his late grandmother and mother. His spiritual guidance has provided healing and empowerment to countless people.
Fred has significantly advanced reconciliation by advising Indigenous and non-Indigenous organizations on wellness, addictions, recovery, and reconciliation. His guidance has shaped policies and practices across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Canada, improving outcomes for Indigenous peoples. Fred's work includes collaborations with Correctional Services of Canada, the National Aboriginal Advisory Committee, the National Elders Working Group with the Director General of Aboriginal Initiatives, the Prairie Regional Council of Elders, and Native Counselling Services of Alberta, as well as advising several Chiefs and Councils in Alberta and Saskatchewan.
Fred’s humble approach to life, sense of responsibility, humor, and wealth of experience inspire everyone he meets. His teachings have been recognized by scholars and students across Canada and abroad. His contributions to Native Counselling Services of Alberta’s video “Wahkohtowin: Cree Natural Law” provide a valuable source of traditional Cree knowledge.
Elder Howie Mustus Jr.
Howard (Howie) Mustus Jr. has been a dedicated pipe carrier of Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation for over 20 years, playing a key role in the Big Lodge and community ceremonies. His deep commitment to traditional practices has made him a respected figure in his community’s cultural and spiritual life.
As a skilled trainer of ceremony helpers, Howie ensures the continuation and integrity of these practices. His influence extends beyond his community, providing cultural support for the Indian Residential Schools (IRS) program and participating in numerous National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation events across Canada.
Howie’s dedication to healing and cultural preservation was internationally recognized when he was chosen as an Elder and entrusted with the Pipe for the Healing Our Spirits Worldwide Conference. This prestigious event, held in Australia, New Zealand, and North America, brought together over 4,000 attendees, underscoring his significant contributions to Indigenous healing practices.
In addition to his ceremonial roles, Howie teaches Traditional medicinal and harvesting knowledge to the youth, ensuring that the wisdom of his ancestors is passed on to future generations.
A devoted family man, Howie balances his community responsibilities with his roles as a husband and father, embodying the importance of family and tradition in his life.
EIR - FAQs
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Elders can help with connecting you to culture and ceremony, but in most cases they are not counsellors. They are integral community members that can guide you in your cultural learning and connect you to the larger community.
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Protocol is a traditional set of rules or etiquette that demonstrates respect for the Elder. When seeking knowledge from an Elder, learners present the Elder with an offering of tobacco or another gift and make their request.
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Kokum Lorette will accept protocol such as tobacco, however, if someone cannot provide it, they will not be turned away.
Tobacco, one cigarette is good, a meter of Print (solid colour broadcloth) or other culturally specific items that you were taught.
