A Week of Promise in Cree Communities
As June draws to a close, the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay (CBHSSJB) looks back at a deeply meaningful World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15th, 2025, and the subsequent week of dedicated activities across the Cree communities. This period served as an opportunity to shed light on elder mistreatment and reinforce the profound importance of respect between generations.
The message at the heart of these events was clear: June 15th is the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. We can not launch our special week of activities without talking about mistreatment. It is a difficult truth that across our communities, elder mistreatment is a reality we can no longer ignore. This mistreatment can manifest in many forms, including neglect, financial exploitation, emotional manipulation, even physical harm. Too often, it occurs in silence, a silence that can be louder than any word. It speaks of fear, isolation, and, most tragically, of lost trust. Fundamental to our values is the belief that every older adult deserves to feel safe. Every elder deserves care, respect, and the freedom to age with dignity. Our focus, however, extended beyond simply preventing harm. As shown during the week, protecting our elders is not just about preventing harm. It is also about building something stronger and prioritizing respect between generations.
In today’s fast-paced world, where youth is often celebrated, wisdom gathered over decades can be overlooked. Yet, when generations take time to truly see one another, to listen, and to value one another, something powerful happens. Our elders are cherished as the keepers of stories, of culture, of lessons that can’t be found online. Caregivers, whether family or professional, are the hands and hearts helping to carry that legacy forward. Together, we build bridges, not barriers. The spirit of mutual respect was a recurring theme, emphasizing that it is not just about honoring the past, but also about giving space to the voices of the present and hopes for the future. There is a mutual need: young people need the guidance of elders, and elders deserve the patience, curiosity, and inclusion of younger generations.
The CBHSSJB extends its deepest gratitude to everyone who embarked on this journey with us, and especially to our elders, for the lives you have built and the love you continue to give throughout the year. We also express a special thank you to all the key partners who dedicated their time and effort to the local and regional activities. The success of these events is a testament to our community’s commitment to upholding the dignity and safety of our elders, fostering strong bonds across generations, and ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.
A special acknowledgment
