Aboriginal youth writers can win award

Education is one of the most powerful tools to help youth succeed. It provides young people with a foundation to build their dreams, and it gives them an opportunity to set goals, make a plan and work hard to realize those dreams – whatever they may be.
I believe programs that encourage writing and literacy are crucial for our youth. That’s why I am honoured to be a member of the Advisory Council for the James Bartleman Aboriginal Youth Creative Writing Award. This award gives our youth a chance to have their voices heard.
The Bartleman award gives $2,500 to young writers in two age groups (under 12, and 13-18), and three geographic categories (on-reserve, off-reserve and fly-in). Six recipients are presented annually with the award by the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.
Every year, I have the opportunity to review many submissions – from short stories to poems, songs, essays and theatrical plays. I’m always amazed by the creativity of our Aboriginal youth and the depth of what they have to say.
What inspires them? Everything: the weather, their daily experiences, the experiences of others, their families, friends, ancestors, history and their surroundings. There are no limits to youthful human spirit and the creativity that excites and informs it.
Through their writing, Aboriginal youth invite us to feel what they feel and see the world through their eyes, sharing their boundless imagination and talent with all Canadians.
Writing is an emotional process, but it’s also an empowering experience that helps kids discover their voices, and it can be life-changing. It is also sometimes life changing for those who read their words.
The Bartleman award was created in honour of Ontario’s 27th lieutenant-governor and our first Aboriginal lieutenant-governor. James Bartleman is a member of the Mnjikaning First Nation. He realized at an early age that writing was his licence to dream.
One of last year’s award recipients is Kiara Lynn Bird, a young girl from Naotkamewanning First Nations, who was accompanied by her parents and little brother. This is how she describes the experience of winning a Bartleman award:
“The trip to Toronto was awesome; the ceremony was nerve-wracking but I got through it. My winnings were saved for my family to travel and attend pow-wows. This is important to us, my brother and I both dance and we enjoy the experiences we have, meeting new friends along the powwow trail.”
“Hopefully some youth can take the opportunity to express themselves through writing and possibly be awarded with the same awesome experience! I appreciate this award and love the opportunity I had!”
I invite Aboriginal young people to take the challenge. Pick up your pen and write down your own original piece for a chance to win a Bartleman award. This is an exciting way to make yourself heard.
I also call on teachers, chiefs and community leaders to support Aboriginal youth by encouraging them to enter their writing in this important competition.
The deadline is Friday, May 31, 2013.
For more information go to www.ontario.ca/bartleman or check the Facebook page OntarioHonours
Andre Morriseau is chair of the Advisory Council for the James Bartleman Awards