Brenda Tourangeau

Treaty 8

Tânsì! My name is Brenda Tourangeau.

I am a 61-year-old Cree/Dene Treaty 8 Residential survivor. 

Originally from Fort McKay First Nation, Alberta. I currently reside in Treaty 6/Edmonton. I have six children and one child adopted traditionally. 

For most of my career, I was a heavy equipment operator by trade. I am a certified roughneck and a dedicated advocate for my community and my people.  My aspirations are to continue my lifes education and support the “Keepers of the Water” non-profit organization/movement. 

“Water is Life”.  This is important and crucial to our future generations. 

I have witnessed significant changes in the northern landscape during my lifetime.  Human/environmental damage such as high flowing water, contamination of potable water and the sickness of communities and their wildlife; motivates me every day to fight for Mother Earths' health and children. 

I have done extensive volunteer work as a culture camp youth counsellor and assisted in ensuring that many events such as Fort McKay FN Treaty Days and celebrations were supported in a good way for all community members and elders.  I was a member of the Women’s Association also, where we focused on regular health and wellness programming, educating members on addiction, traditional family awareness and overarching community wellness. 

I am presently educating myself through Cree Language Classes and Traditional Medicines/Herbal Healing. My interests and hobbies are walking, beading, and teaching myself traditionally to participate in “Land Back”.  

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