Workshops teach indigenous women self-defence, nutrition, fitness – StarPhoenix
March 9, 2017
Jade Harper’s aunt Bernice was one of her heroes. As a passionate activist for the Metis community, she inspired her niece to get involved. Sadly, she died in her 60s as a result of diabetes.
Today, Harper is doing what she can to promote wellness in the indigenous community.
Sisters in Action is a series that offers indigenous women nutrition and fitness workshops, as well as self-defence training. The three-night Saskatoon session started on Tuesday; 15 local women are attending. Created as a pilot project by the Native Women’s Association of Canada, the free series is taking Harper, who is based in Winnipeg, across Canada as facilitator.
“As indigenous people we’re learning about and finding strength in our history. We’re doing all kinds of amazing things in all areas,” she said. “I want to see all this good work grow and I don’t think it can grow without that physical element. Our health is something so easily left behind and I’m here to say, ‘Don’t.’ ”
