RECONCILIATION
SPEAKERS BUREAU
ALLAN ADAM
Allan Adam, a Denesuline elder from the Fond du Lac First Nations in Northern Saskatchewan, has worked with Corrections Services Canada since 2017, providing spiritual guidance and ceremonies to inmates at the Maximum Security Unit in Prince Albert and the Regional Psychiatric Center in Saskatoon. Passionate about reconciliation, he advocates for a holistic approach that breaks the cycle of youth involvement in the justice system, emphasizing the importance of land, jobs, and balanced lives for Indigenous people, while also working to preserve the Dene language and promote respect for cultural practices.
MY STORY
I am Allan Adam, a Denesuline First Nations member from the Fond du Lac Denesuline First Nation in Northern Saskatchewan. As a great-grandfather and a Dene spiritual elder, I have worked with Correctional Services Canada since 2017, providing spiritual support to inmates at the Maximum Security Unit in Prince Albert and the Regional Psychiatric Center in Saskatoon. My work with CSC has deeply impacted me, and I feel called to share the experiences I've gained over the years.
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Reconciliation, to me, means revamping the entire social safety net system, especially for young people who are often broken before they reach 10 years old and are funnelled into the justice system. We must break this cycle early on to prevent future generations from heading to jail. Growing up in Uranium City, I witnessed my people transition from life on the land to working in the mining industry. I chose a different path, working for 12 years in media with the CBC, followed by a few years in politics, and I’ve spent most of my life serving my Dene people in the public sector.
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I believe reconciliation also means empowering Indigenous people to actively engage in the business world around them, living a balanced life where land and jobs matter. We must think about the environment and the legacy we will leave for future generations. According to Dene prophecy, this legacy could be grim unless we take action.
One of my greatest passions is preserving the Dene language. I’ve been an instructor at the University for many years, and I am also a pipe carrier, sweat lodge holder, and Dene knowledge keeper. My teachings are rooted in the wisdom of Cree, Dene, and Dakota Elders, and I strongly believe in fairness and respect when conducting ceremonies.
Reconciliation, for me, means showing respect for each other’s ways and putting an end to cultural misappropriation. While many still speak Dene, the language is at risk, and I’m dedicated to ensuring its survival for future generations.
In my work with inmates, I provide one-on-one counseling, lead sweat lodge ceremonies, and regularly facilitate smudging. I have earned the trust and respect of the inmates I work with, and I continue my work at both the Maximum Security Unit and the Regional Psychiatric Center, striving to bring healing to those who need it most.