YCC inmates perform traditional Northern activities throughout the community
Maria Canton
Northern News Services
NNSL (May 21/99) - Inmates from the Yellowknife Correctional Centre visit with Aven Manor elders twice a month as a way of promoting positive interaction within the community, says the YCC recreation supervisor, Michele Hilchey.
"It builds their self-esteem and breaks up the time for them," Hilchey said. "The guys are exceptional, no problems at all."
Traditional drumming, singing and Northern games demonstrations fill the afternoon visits with the elders, who sometimes join in the singing or try their hand at drumming.
The time is also spent speaking in their native languages and having coffee and tea.
"I've seen the performance before," says one elder. "But I'd forgotten how good it was, they have such rhythm."
The group of six inmates take turns playing the Kilaotik, a large traditional Inuit drum, while telling a story through song, and as a group, they play caribou-hide Dene drums.
Some play the guitar while others show the elders the games of Alaskan high kick, muskox fighting or the arm pull.
"The residents really enjoy it," says Raija McClelland, activity co-ordinator at Aven Manor. "They look forward to the visits and the drumming is always good."
Because the visits are on a regular basis, the inmates and the elders have a chance to become familiar with each other and build friendships.
Rudy Mingilgak, one of the inmates, speaks Inuktitut with one of the elders. And when he plays the Kilaotik, she sings traditional songs.
In order to take part in outings from YCC, the inmates have to have an outside security rating and be classified as non-aggressive, with positive behaviours and attitudes.
YCC also works in partnership with the schools, who in turn work with the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre, giving carving, drumming and Northern games demonstrations.
"They're great with the kids and the kids really like them," says Wendy Stephenson, curator of exhibits and extension services at the museum. "They speak a little bit of Inuktitut with the students and are very patient, energetic and supportive."
