Finding balance’ – Labradorian

August 4, 2015

Former foster child says system should include cultural aspects
As a child, Susan Onalik spent ten years within the Newfoundland and Labrador foster care system.

Onalik – who is originally from Makkovik — says she felt culture shock when she first came home to her own culture in Nunatsiavut.

“When I was in care I did lose a lot of my sense of community; the connection with my grandparents, (and) my elders,” Onalik recalls.

“But I did gain a lot of insight into direction, discipline and guidance that I didn’t have before, because of the abuse and addiction problems in the home where I was a child. When I was taken away I got the care I needed, but it didn’t include the cultural aspects.”

Read More: http://www.thelabradorian.ca/news/regional/2015/8/4/_finding-balance.html