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.
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.
