Supporting Indigenous Communities

The Phoenix Centre for Children and Families would like to recognize and honour Connor Sarazin, an Indigenous artist from Pikwakanagan First Nation. In March 2023, Connor agreed to do meaningful Indigenous artwork for the agency.

The beautiful artwork can be seen from the stairway as you enter our lobby as it draws your attention. The Phoenix Centre recognized the importance of including a local Indigenous artist in the creation of artwork that would hold significant meaning of reflection, change and ongoing commitment to inclusivity.

To further promote cross-cultural awareness and strengthen our commitment to reconciliation and decolonization, The Phoenix Centre for Children and Families aims to include Indigenous art, culture, various forms of storytelling and the diverse ways of knowing in our region.

On August 1st, 2023, Connor delivered the two beautiful pieces of artwork to the Pembroke Office both while similar and different at the same time. Connor shared with staff members that the artwork might be similar to the eye, but if you look closer each brush stroke shows a different story and possibly animals.

Meaning behind the paintings to be inclusive to all Indigenous Peoples on Turtle Island. Cultural symbols and elements of colours of the Medicine Wheel are generally associated with First Nation, an infinity symbol for Métis Peoples and an Inuksuk for Inuit Peoples.

The turtle in the centre represents the land we walk on Turtle Island (Canada) and Mother Nature. The water around the turtle represents the giver of life, the nurturer.

The Medicine Wheel represents various things, but most of all, our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. While our fire burns at the center of it.

The Medicine Wheel reminds us that everything within and around us is connected to each other, not just by blood-related ones.

The colours of the Medicine Wheel also represent inclusivity, as each colour represents the colour of race. White- Caucasian, Yellow-Asian, Black- those of colour, Red-Indigenous.Most importantly the bear (Makwa) paw print in the background represents the Algonquin of Pikwakanagan.

As we are on the traditional, unceded and unsurrendered territory of the Algonquin People.The artwork is a reminder of how it is important that we listen to all voices and include everyone. To be mindful and understanding of those we walk alongside on our journeys.

If you are interested in receiving more information about our new Indigenous Cultural Space or if you are an Indigenous client who is interested in receiving services from Veronica Miller, a Family and Child Therapist and citizen of the Métis Nation, please contact our Administration Team at 613-735-2374 or 1-800-465-1870.