Family Violence Initiative

COMPENDIUM OF PROMISING PRACTICES TO REDUCE VIOLENCE AND INCREASE SAFETY OF ABORIGINAL WOMEN IN CANADA

ECONOMIC CIRCUMSTANCES

Alternatives to Gangs

Program Name:

Str8Up for Males and Females Exiting Gangs

Organization/Community:

Kinsman Activity Place

Location:

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Website:

N/A

Goals and Objectives:

Str8Up assists young men and women to master their own destiny in liberating themselves from gangs and criminal street lifestyles, reducing vulnerability to violence and abuse.

Target Group Description:

All ages

Program Description:

Str8Up is a traditional program, incorporated in federal and provincial jails (male and female). The program consists of a traditional sharing circle (that includes teachings, prayers, songs and smudging) with an Elder and Cultural Advisor. The program seeks to have clients achieve three goals. 1. To become a responsible citizen (i.e. employed, attending school, law abiding etc). 2. To become a loving parent. 3. To be a faithful partner by maintaining a healthy and respectful relationship with their partner. Part of the process is to educate the participants that violence can no longer be normalized and that there is a way to be loving and caring to their partners. Cultural teachings about women and having respect for women are offered. Access to ceremony is gained through sweat lodges and Sundance ceremonies.

Program Successes/Impact:

65 men and women have left gangs as a result of the program.

Key Lessons/Challenges:

Obtaining funding. Need for greater transparency of what is needed to meet government performance measures of "success" in programs.

Program in operation since:

15 years.

Program:

Ongoing.