Opening Prayer/Closing Prayer

Darlene McIntosh

Darlene’s role as Elder encompasses an ever-expanding scope from protocols of traditional territorial welcoming of guests/people/meetings/special events: offerings of blessings and prayers, opening meetings and circles, acting as witness in meetings and tribunals as well as sitting on Aboriginal Advisory Committees. These demands are rising not only because of increasing protocols, but because of the wisdom and warmth that Darlene embraces through her gift of writing and being able to weave her insights into the purpose of the gathering, thus interconnecting people, purpose and spirit. Darlene’s most vital role in the community is her contributions to education as the Cultural Advisor in the Aboriginal Resource Centre. Darlene has been a mainstay and fountain of support, teaching and leadership for students. She has helped them navigate their paths toward academic success. More importantly, Darlene has been the critical link throughout the wider network of the College of New Caledonia’s quest toward indigenization and reconciliation. She is the educator, mediator, cultural advisor, and spiritual leader for staff, executive, faculty and, of course, students. Darlene’s interconnectedness and love for Mother Earth grounds her in the reality of today. Mussi.