That may explain why, with all that she has accomplished and all
the programs she has initiated, perhaps the one she relates to
most personally is the pre-employment training. "It builds up
self-esteem," she reflects, "gives these young women
courage." In fact, despite all her awards and honours, when
you ask Strasbourg what gives her the most satisfaction she's
quick to single out this 16-week course for young Native women now
run by Grant MacEwan College in Edmonton. She talks about going
down to the bus station and seeing the pimps sitting there. Her
mission: to get to young Native women arriving in the city before they
do—to find these women a place to stay; sign them up for the
training program; help them get to agencies such as Social
Services, the Native Friendship Centre, or Alberta Vocational
College, to get education and jobs. "When I'm invited to the
graduation of the program and listen to their stories, that gives
me satisfaction. They didn't slip through the cracks in the
system, didn't end up on the street."
Strasbourg made headlines last year as co-chair of the committee
who interviewed candidates for Region 10's new board for social
services for children and families. Angry that five of the 15
people whom the government selected were not on the list the
committee recommended, Strasbourg didn't hesitate to express her
concern. "I felt there should have been more Aboriginal
people [chosen]. It's important to have Aboriginal people involved
with social services because when they are working with Aboriginal
people they understand them."
In her book, she lets readers know this isn't the last chapter
in her story as a role model. "I still work a 40 to 50 hour
week as a volunteer and community Elder. I often get tired, but
there is still so much work to be done." And with that
sparkle in her eye, she'll tell you, "I'm not finished yet by
a long shot."
Heritage Community Foundation Presents
