on addiction and recovery are integral for Matriarch members as nearly everyone in the group is affected by or knows someone dealing with substance abuse or recovery. Members are provided with solutions, resources and tools, whether substance abuse affects them or a relative. “I understand I’m not alone,” said Wilson- Clements. “As Indigenous people we are experiencing traumas through our present differently but there is connection in generational, historical trauma.” Another recent favorite program was about Two-Spirit relatives, led by a trans sister. Two-Spirit refers to a person who identifies as having both a masculine and a feminine spirit, and is used by some Indigenous people to describe their sexual, gender and/or spiritual identity. Matriarch members and youth asked thoughtful questions and discussed identity, all amidst the undercurrent that each is loved however they identify. Empowering Matriarch members are encouraged to bring their children to meetings, and kids listen in
to programming and participate in creative projects alongside their mothers and aunties. If a program or topic will be particularly difficult or not age-appropriate for some, the members are made aware ahead of time so each can determine whether her children will accompany her. Youth participants are encouraged to ask questions and engage in dialogue. “We think it’s very important to make space for their voices,” said Adams-Cornell. “We don’t know what it’s like to be them and we recognize that and value them.” By watching their elders prioritize mental health, healing and cultural connectivity, the children learn the power in finding and utilizing safe spaces and tools in their own lives. The founders hope that by disrupting patterns and course-correcting for their mothers, they are also providing children with brighter futures. “We are watching cyclical generational trauma being broken,” said Adams- Cornell. “When mothers develop tools, that automatically trickles down to their children. We have to be diligent in making sure we have the safe space to heal and a support
discussing topics like domestic and sexual abuse education, cultural re-connection, suicide prevention, addiction recovery, financial planning, physical, mental and spiritual health education, job market preparation and healthy relationship guidance. Occasionally instead of a speaker the programming involves an art project, like beading, making ribbon skirts or shawls, creating regalia or another culturally-relevant practice. “This is nothing new; these are old ways, the ways of our grandmothers and great- grandmothers,” said Adams-Cornell of the structure of Matriarch’s programming. “We’re providing a space, time and organization around remembering the cultural ways that heal us.” Healing In connecting with other Indigenous women, Matriarch members often find healing. Wilson-Clements began her own recovery journey from alcoholism about four years ago, and she credits Matriarch with empowering her process. Continued programs and classes
BUILDING A HEALTHY COMMUNITY ONE HOUSEHOLD AT A TIME
The YMCA is more than a gym. Your household membership comes with pool-splashing, soccer-ball-kicking family time with year-round activities, aquatics programs and free developmental youth sports for the whole family. With 14 locations throughout Central Oklahoma, the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City is home to personal trainers, group fitness classes and free child watch while you take care of you. When you join the Y, you’re not just joining a gym. You’re investing in yourself, your family and your community.
Household memberships starting as low as $65 per month, no contract.
Join today online at ymcaokc.org/metrofamily.
METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOV-DEC 2021 25
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