Grateful for insights into Cree traditions

I would like to sincerely thank Doug Cuthand for his article “First Nations traditions tested at Stanley trial” (Feb. 3). As a white, middle class woman born in the ’50s, I have very limited understanding of First Nations people. I have begun my education, reading a number of recent books on the subject. I have a long way to go. Cuthand’s article opened my eyes to the Cree traditions around the loss of a loved one and traditions for honouring the deceased.

As a mother, my heart goes out to Debbie Baptiste and the family of the young man. Losing a son to violence is an unbearable tragedy. To endure a trial on top of this must be incredibly difficult. Now as an additional burden, the family must endure hateful comments and disrespect for their dearly held traditions (not saying the name of the deceased or looking at his picture, etc.) during the trial. I am sure that the Stanley family is going through a rough time, too.

Instead of anger, disrespect and hatred, perhaps we could take a step back and try to search our hearts for compassion, understanding and forgiveness. Yes it’s hard, but we have more to gain in the long run. Let the boy make his journey to his ancestors while we make another journey, a journey to a place of mutual respect, tolerance and caring.

I agree with Cuthand — this is a defining moment in Saskatchewan. Jean Epp-Gauthier, Saskatoon