On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we acknowledge the impact of residential schools on Indigenous peoples across our province and country. It’s a day to reflect, listen, and take meaningful steps toward healing and understanding. Let’s use this day to uplift Indigenous voices and commit to learning from Saskatchewan’s diverse Indigenous communities. Together, we can build a future grounded in respect, truth, and reconciliation.
CURLSASK would like to highlight Greyden Yee Louison, a student from Treaty 4, who created the Goldline Indigenous curling broom.
What does being Indigenous mean to you?
Many challenges in life because of the colour of our skin. It’s about trying to bring inclusion into the world and with the indigenous broom, it’s about trying to bring inclusion to the sport of curling. Just because I may look different than other people on that ice, doesn’t mean I should be treated differently. Every day there is that small step towards that goal of inclusion. Through the years I have seen many reservations and their leadership make small steps toward making a better life for our people and I am always proud to see that happening. By creating spaces for youth to play sports such as new hockey rinks or wellness centres, creating more work opportunities, and providing programs to further our people’s knowledge and skills. Even though there have been many challenges over the decades, I am still proud to be Indigenous and represent my people through curling.
What went into creating the indigenous broom?
A lot of discussions between my mom, grandmother, Erin Flowers of Goldline and their designer. Just to get an understanding and be on the same page of what we wanted to create. When I get asked by people about the broom and if I am the one that designed it, I always say it was a team effort and many people came together to create that broom. Even though my name is on that broom, I cannot take all the credit for it. I am just grateful for the opportunity that Erin and Goldline gave me and the chance to make my voice heard.
What does it mean to you to have an indigenous broom to curl with?
It is something special to have a piece with so much meaning and artwork to curl with. It brings a sense of belonging and diminishes the idea that I’m the only Indigenous person playing on that ice. I love how the white background brings everything to life on the broom as well. I am always proud when I can showcase that broom on the ice. I also enjoy when I can meet people who love the broom and want to talk more about it as well. One thing that makes me really happy and proud to see how far this has come is being able to see other people use the indigenous broom to curl.
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