Native Awareness Training
About Walter: He has over 20 years of experience working within the education system – social services sector working with First Nation Youth and Families. Walter has earned his BA in General Studies from the University of Calgary and has been following the traditional teachings for over 25 years. Walter brings a wealth of experience and workshop skills that are respectful of all worldviews. Facilitated in a positive approach, and is delivered in a highly educational and theatrical style. Utilizing contemporary music as well as traditional music. For more information, you can find and inquire on White Bear Services website at, waltermacdonaldwhitebear.com. Walters’s facilitation skills- comes from a place of spirit channeled through heart-felt music, personal stories, and traditional teachings that have been passed on by sweat lodge holders and pipe carriers. He also speaks about the power of choice, compassion for all worldviews and the “special gift “ that all human beings were born with. The workshop can be customized from a one-hour presentation- to a full-day activity that includes a variety of personal growth exercises to sharing circles. Walter also highlights the effect of lateral violence and internalized oppression and how colonization has had a powerful impact with sharing the traditional Aboriginal worldview. Walter uses music and stories to connect with various audiences on a personal level. He shares his teachings openly, coming from a place of spirit that is a refreshing change. Connecting people with their gifts provides tools for a different outlook on their journey. Walter has been sharing cultural teachings that he has acquired over the past 25 years from a variety of teachers of Cree, Blackfoot, Ojibwa, Odawa, Saulteaux and Métis’ Nations ancestry. Native Awareness Training- Objectives Topics that will are covered but not limited to: The symbolic meaning of the Medicine Wheel/The Cycle of life Symbolism within the culture Eagle feathers sweet grass, Elders Impact of colonization and residential schools Understanding lateral violence and internalized oppression Building healthy relationships- strategies of moving forward Understanding the Native worldview and the similarities and the differences of the western worldview Dispelling the myths and stereotypes of Native people The objective of the training is to create a safe space for people to ask questions about Canada’s first peoples.