Michael Linklater speaking to a room full of people in Saskatoon on Friday about his journey growing his braids. Photo by Joel Willick.
According to the founder of an Indigenous culture group, reconciliation between Saskatoon’s Police Service and the city’s Indigenous population is proceeding nicely.
Michael Linklater and his organization Boys With Braids held two learning sessions at the Saskatoon Police Headquarters on Friday; one was open for the public while another was held solely for Saskatoon Police staff.
The goal of organization is to encourage young Indigenous boys when growing their braids as well as educating the public on the tradition.
“Hopefully people at these sessions will take some insight and understanding to some of the things these kids face as well as take away some of the cultural significance,” said Linklater.
The 35-year-old originally from Thunderchild First Nation says Friday’s sessions also spoke to what he calls great work the City police has done to mend the relationship with the Indigenous community.
“This is just helping their staff to become better educated on some of our spirituality and teachings,” said Linklater. “It is really exciting to know they are interested in some of these ceremonies and teachings.”
Throughout the sessions, Linklater drew experience from his own struggles growing his hair growing up. He hopes Boys With Braids will help make this journey easier for Indigenous boys and men in the future.