On-the-land programming has been shown to be very successful throughout COVID and even before. I think you know that my brother-in-law runs a land-based program in Alberta, which has been hugely successful because of the quality of its aftercare as well. To be out on the land is important to all Canadians, but for indigenous people, to actually have that language and culture and to be proud of who they are, and to have that secure personal and cultural identity is so important. To be good at stuff on the land and on the water is really important in building self-esteem and having people be able to see that they can live their best lives.
On March 23rd, 2023. See this statement in context.