Calgary Community Raises Over $20,000 for Indigenous Youth Justice Education Program
On September 12, 2024, Level Justice hosted an intimate fundraising event in Calgary to support its Indigenous Youth Outreach Program (IYOP). The evening, graciously hosted by Level Board Member Heather McKay and her husband Glenn Lemmerick at their beautiful home, brought together community members passionate about advancing justice education and reconciliation through youth programming.
Heather McKay, Level Board Member, welcomes everyone to her and her husband Glenn's home for the Calgary fundraiser.
The event opened with a meaningful land acknowledgment recognizing the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut'ina, the îethka Nakoda Nations (Chiniki, Bearspaw, Goodstoney), the Otipemisiwak Métis Government (Districts 5 and 6), and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta.
Level's Executive Director Shelan Markus highlighted the organization's commitment to addressing critical justice issues in Canada, including the historical and ongoing injustices towards Indigenous peoples, the overrepresentation of Indigenous and Black youth in the criminal justice system, and the impact of climate change on vulnerable communities. She emphasized IYOP's role in building crucial bridges between marginalized young people and legal professionals, creating pathways for systemic change.
Attendees heard powerful presentations from Indigenous Youth & Environment Program Manager Desneige Frandsen, respected Blackfoot and Cree Knowledge Keeper Myra GoodEagle, and distinguished Siksika Astronomer Rob Cardinal (Kakatoos'ina/Star Chief), who each shared insights from their extensive work with Indigenous youth. Their perspectives underscored the importance of programs that combine justice education with cultural preservation and healing from intergenerational trauma.
The evening proved to be a remarkable success, raising over $20,000 to support Level's mission of advancing justice education and removing barriers to equity. These funds will help expand IYOP's reach in delivering public legal education that empowers Indigenous youth to understand their rights, learn about both Canadian and Indigenous legal systems, and envision themselves as future leaders in creating a more equitable justice system.
For community members interested in hosting similar fundraising events in their regions - which provide meaningful opportunities to connect with justice sector leaders, build relationships with Indigenous Knowledge Keepers and legal professionals, and be recognized as a champion for youth justice education - please contact Tanya Wall, Development Manager at Level at tanya@leveljustice.org
To learn more about volunteering opportunities or other ways to support Level's work in addressing systemic barriers and promoting diversity in the legal sector, visit www.leveljustice.org
