Echoes of Home

A Journey Through Identity and Resilience

By: Floyd Black Horse

"I often refer to myself as a museum," remarked Lily Wells, a student at the University of Lethbridge enrolled in Museum Studies courses. Ms. Wells shared her poignant reflections during the Design Talks (d.talks) Institute's land acknowledgment, shedding light on her journey from Indian Residential School to urban life as a Blackfoot woman.

On April 11, the theme "Home" took center stage at Contemporary Calgary as d.talks delved into the profound question: What makes a place feel like home? An evening featuring presentations and panel discussions with artists, critics, urban planners, and co-founders, explored the multifaceted dimensions of 'home.'

From the global perspective of affordability challenges to the housing crisis in Canadian cities, panelists offered insights into innovative design solutions. The conversation, like a pendulum, swung between moments of sorrow and joy, highlighting the complexities of the concept of home.

For some, home evokes memories of warmth and familial gatherings, while for others, it symbolizes a battleground of identity and acceptance.

In my recollections, home was a realm of sanctuary and laughter. Growing up in the Northeast community of Martin-dale in Calgary, Alberta, our expansive six-bedroom house stood adjacent to the community's Dashmesh Culture Centre and sprawling prairie lands, offering boundless adventures for my childhood companions and me.

Yet, beneath the façade of idyllic childhood memories lay the harsh realities of prejudice and stereotype. In a society where mainstream culture often ridiculed Indigenous traditions and values, embracing my heritage meant facing ostracization and mockery.

Despite the popularity of gangster rap culture prevalent among my peers, my true passions lay in the arts and storytelling. Hidden behind a veneer of conformity, I navigated the tumultuous waters of adolescence, grappling with my burgeoning sexuality and the pressures of societal expectations.

The transition from the familiarity of home to the unknown terrain of adulthood marked the beginning of my journey. Leaving behind the safety net of Calgary, I embarked on a transformative odyssey that led me to the gritty streets of Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Amidst personal losses and battles with addiction, I found solace in the vibrant tapestry of artistic expression that enveloped me. Embracing sobriety, I stepped into the spotlight of my narrative, reclaiming my identity and forging new paths of self-discovery.

As I reflect on my journey, I realize that home transcends physical spaces; it is a sanctuary within ourselves, a testament to resilience and the enduring spirit of survival. Despite the challenges and hardships along the way, I stand as a testament to the indomitable human spirit, a testament to the resilience of Indigenous peoples in the face of adversity.

D. Talks' Home event served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous communities in the wake of settler colonialism. As we strive for reconciliation and healing, we must recognize the resilience and strength of Indigenous voices, amplifying their stories and honoring their enduring presence on this land.

In the words of Lily Wells, "We're still here." Amidst the currents of change and upheaval, Indigenous peoples persist, their voices resonating through the annals of history, a testament to the enduring legacy of home.