Protocols: Prayers by Elders

Identifying and Honouring Elders

Identifying Elders in the community who would be appropriate to engage with your programs can be a challenge. Elders and Knowledge Keepers are held in the highest regard for their wisdom and central role in community life. They are valued for their ability to provide insight and involving a circle of Elders in any decision-making process is central to Indigenous practices. An Elder is not necessarily a function of age but is determined more by the ability to provide wisdom, be authentic, and able to hold different perspectives. Elders have always been relied on to interpret the deeper meaning of life experiences, mentoring authentic self-reflection so that all community members are aware of their gifts and contribute to the community with purpose. Elders and Knowledge Keepers are held in high regard as they are the keepers of wisdom. They are leaders, teachers, role models, and mentors in their respective communities.

There will be many Elders in your community and it is a challenge to identify who would be most appropriate. Many communities have an ‘Elder’ list, but not all. Ask a wide range of people whom they consider an Elder. Then ask the people closest to the Elder how to approach them about being involved in community programs. Ease them into it. Be prepared for informal visits, potentially many of them, to create a relationship and for you to build trust. Understand that some may not feel comfortable taking on a role in a formal environment.

Once you have an Elder involved in the programs, be very aware that how compassionate and respectful you are will indicate how long the Elder is involved in the program. Many have very traumatic relationships with the educational system. Be aware when asking them to share their experience that you are acknowledging the vulnerability they are experiencing.

Offer Tobacco and/or a Gift

It is customary to offer a gift to an Elder when asking for their advice. It is important to realize that charging for the teachings is not appropriate as the teachings do not belong to an individual but rather to the community. However, some Elders do charge an honorarium for their time. Tobacco and blankets are traditional gifts. It is appropriate for you to ask what gifts you might bring when talking to an Elder. The offering may be in the form of a tobacco pouch or tobacco tie (loose tobacco wrapped in a small cloth). Tobacco is one of the four sacred medicines, and it is offered when making a request to an Elder. The tobacco should be prepared by the person making the request. It is good to think about what you are asking for as you are preparing your gift. Cash can also be given to cover costs for participating in a program though some Elders consider this awkward or even offensive, so ask first.

The exchange of tobacco/gift is similar to a contract between two parties where the Elder is agreeing to do what is asked, and the offering is making a commitment to respect the process.

When giving tobacco it is customary to shake the Elder’s hand as a sign of respect. Thank the Elder with a handshake, gift, and thank them for sharing their wisdom.