Walking the Red Road: The Role of First Nations Grandparents in Promoting Cultural Well-Being

• DOI: 10.2190/ag.76.1.c
• Publication Date: 2013-02-05T02:07:53Z
• Authors: Grace E. Thompson; Rose E. Cameron; Esme Fuller-Thomson
• Keywords: Grandchild; Well-Being

The purpose of this grounded theory study was to provide a framework for understanding the contemporary experience First Nations grandparents. Fifteen respondents ( N = 15) were selected from two demographically different Canadian cities. Seven grandparents lived with their child and grandchild or grandchildren at time interview; an additional four had some point prior investigation. Results revealed that leveraged own experiences cultural disruption reinvest in health well-being grandchildren. One grandfather described role as “walking red road” which entailed responsibility “to wisdom … protection.” Identified benefits rejuvenating traditions grandparent involvement included healing joy.