Invitation To Join Líl̓wat Nation’s new Child and Family Services Nxékmen (CFSN) Working Group
Líl̓wat Nation is embarking on a collaborative, Member and Nation-driven initiative to develop our own, custom-made Child and Family Services Law, and a completely re-imagined CFS system. We will restore all authority and control from the federal and provincial governments back to where it always should have stayed – within Líl̓wat Nation. We will transform the way that our Children, Youth, and Families are cared for and supported – in our laws (Nxékmen).
Our new law will aim to capture and reflect the unique history and ways of our Members and of the Líl̓wat Nation when it comes to caring for our children, young adults, and families. It will become the overarching, paramount law that governs how child and family services can be delivered for Members of our Nation – completely replacing the existing system.
The CFSN Working Group will plan and undertake extensive community engagement to create our vision, so that Members can help lead the Nation on its pathway forward.
We would like Members of Líl̓wat Nation and others with connections to our community to join us in developing our Líl̓wat child welfare law. Please reach out if you are interested in joining the Child and Family Services Nxékmen (CFSN) Working Group. This Working Group will engage with community and make recommendations to Chiefs and Council.
- Five community positions on the Working Group are available.
- Ideally, this Working Group will consist of one Elder; one Youth; and three community general members.
- This work requires a substantial time commitment over the next year.
- Those appointed may receive a modest honorarium for their work and participation.
- Some travel may be necessary.
- To apply, please provide/submit the following:
- A cover letter describing why you’re interested in joining the CFSN Working Group and what you want to bring to the work.
- An updated resume.
- If you’re an employee of the Nation, please provide your supervisor’s approval to join the CFSN Working Group.
- Please note that Elders who want to participate do not need to follow this process and should reach out to Mary Czernick directly.
Relevant background, experience, and skill sets could include:
- Experience working within the Child and Family Services system or otherwise supporting Líl̓wat Nation children and youth in care.
- Lived experience within the Child & Family Services System
- Experience supporting Líl̓wat children, youth, and families with their health, mental health, educational, or social service’s needs.
- Experience providing programming that supports for Líl̓wat Nation children, youth, and families (i.e. wellness and recreational programs).
- Experience supporting the revitalization and preservation of Líl̓wat language, culture, and the traditions of the people of our Nation.
- Experience ensuring the safety of Líl̓wat or other First Nation community Members.
- Any other relevant knowledge or experience that could add value to developing a law that keeps Líl̓wat Nation children, youth, and families strong, healthy, safe, and together.
Please note the following:
- A clear criminal record check will be required.
- Internet access and computer access are not necessarily required for joining this Working Group.
- For those not participating in the Working Group there will be multiple facilitated community engagement sessions to ensure all community members have the opportunity to contribute to developing a child welfare law that is meaningful and reflective of Líl̓wat values and traditional caregiving processes.
We will be welcoming applications until end of day Monday March 25, 2024.
Interested Líl̓wat Nation Members can apply by contacting Mary Czernick at
mary.czernick@lilwat.ca or by phone at 604-894-6115.