Crossing the River: an unsettling memoir

Growing up in the 1950s and ‘60s, Sandra absorbed the notions of continuing racism and prejudice against indigenous people. As a social worker with the federal government, she was responsible for removing ‘at risk’ Indigenous children from their families, often sending them to residential school. Over time she was led to advocacy work with indigenous communities and developed a passionate dedication to unlearning and relearning Canada’s real history.

Sandra faced the task of 'crossing the river’ between two communities, the mostly white town where she lived, and the Cree Nation of the other side. You will be shocked, saddened, encouraged and ultimately challenged to ask yourself the questions she asks herself even now - what kind of Canada do you want and how will you be part of that unfolding history?

Cheryle Chagnon-Greyeyes is a proud Nehiyaw Esquao (Cree Woman), a member of Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, Saskatchewan, Treaty Six, and Métis. Cheryle earned a BA in Communications and a BA in Canadian “Native” Studies from the University of Calgary. She has been an Indigenous activist within Calgary and recently retired as Administrative Coordinator at the Native Centre at the University of Calgary.