CBHSSJB Releases Final Report of the Cree Youth Protection Commission
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The Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay (CBHSSJB) is releasing MAAMIINUPITIHTAAU: The Final Report from the Chaashtipishtihch (commissioners), a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to strengthen support for Cree children, youth and families across Eeyou Istchee.
The report sets out 70 recommendations aimed at strengthening collective responsibility for the well-being of children and families, restoring trust and improving outcomes for future generations. The recommendations are directed to all entities, groups and people that share responsibilities for children, youth and families in Eeyou Istchee. For the CBHSSJB. they address major organizational priorities, service areas under the CBHSSJB’s responsibility, and the Department of Youth Protection with some initiatives already underway.
Led by Cree Chaashtipishtihch Bella M. Petawabano and Lorraine Spencer, the Cree Youth Protection Commission was created to listen to communities, better understand the challenges affecting children and families, and identify solutions grounded in Cree values, knowledge and lived experience.
The commissioners visited every Cree community, creating respectful and confidential spaces for people to share their experiences, concerns and hopes for the future. Their work brought together the voices of community members, CBHSSJB employees, community leaders and partner organizations. The commission also reviewed data, previous commission reports, research literature and promising practices in First Nations child welfare.
The publication of MAAMIINUPITIHTAAU marks the completion of an important listening process, but it is only the beginning of the work ahead. The CBHSSJB is committed to working alongside communities, their leaders, partners and service providers to develop and deploy a collective action plan in response to the recommendations.
The CBHSSJB recognizes that creating lasting positive change requires shared commitment and continued collaboration. The report offers a path forward that reflects the voices, experiences and aspirations shared throughout the consultation process and reinforces a common goal: ensuring that every Cree child, youth and family can thrive.
About the Task Force
The Awaash Uschiniichisuu Sikischchaayimuwinuu Task Force is an advisory working group established under the authority of the CBHSSJB to identify ways to better adapt Youth Protection and Youth Criminal Justice services to the realities and needs of the Cree families. Its members included representatives from the Cree Nation Government, Cree School Board, Cree Women of Eeyou Istchee Association, Nishiiyuu Council of Elders, Cree Nation Youth Council and Eeyou Eenou Police Force.
