Ask Auntie
"Ask Auntie" is an upstream suicide and violence prevention project for Aboriginal girls 10-18 in British Columbia. The project's focus is to provide the combination of traditional and conventional knowledge to ground Aboriginal girls in their traditional community activities and culture promoting self-acceptance and positive cultural identities; promote a greater understanding of sexual health and healthy relationships, and work to develop safe environments that foster youth's ability to make healthy choices. BC Women's Aboriginal Program leads in partnership with the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) Cuystwi indigenous youth wellness program. "Aunties", or female role models, facilitate the project in each community, including an online interactive "classroom", community activities lead by youth, and a "safe space" where girls can seek refuge and ask questions. Each community's advisory committee will shape the program and will also create sustainability plans to ensure the learning continues.
