Sandra presents research results to Chief and Council of Beardy’s and Okemasis First Nation

Sandra described the unique character of the evacuation centre established by Beardy’s during the 2015 wildfires, when Beardy’s welcomed Indigenous peoples from northern Saskatchewan as a “home away from home”. In particular, she explained what she had learned about how Beardy’s had included Indigenous knowledge and cultural values when making their territory and safe and welcoming place for individuals and families forced from their homes under stressful circumstances. She applauded the efforts of the volunteers who worked tirelessly for weeks and encouraged the community to document their initiative as a reference for future events and for governmental decision-makers. She also encouraged the Beardy’s to de-brief with the community at large so that more people would know how things unfolded and help community members to understand how they might be able to help in the future. She offered to translate her results into a short fact-sheet that could be used by Beardy’s as they do this follow up.