My name is Erin Strachan and I am a consultant with PMC on Indigenous capacity-building projects. I am originally from Regina, Saskatchewan but have lived in Ottawa since 2008, where I got a Master’s degree in Canadian Studies from Carleton University, with a focus on Indigenous cultures. I have worked as an instructor helping diverse groups of people communicate with each other despite significant cultural differences for over 10 years now.

I am a non-Indigenous woman who didn’t know much about Canada’s Indigenous people or the north growing up, which is unfortunately a common experience for too many of us non-Indigenous Canadians. But fortunately that tide is beginning to change and it couldn’t come a moment too soon. For Indigenous Canadians, the road to reconciliation has been a terrible, long and frustrating affair. I am continuously amazed at the level of patience, generosity and forgiveness they demonstrate while waiting for Canada to make good on its promises and learn to share the land together.

Now I find myself in Baker Lake ready to share my knowledge and learn more about the rich culture of the Baker Lake Inuit. It is an immense honour that I do not take lightly. I am here with my husband David, who is working remotely from Baker Lake and our daughter Claire, who is almost 16 months old. They are happily along for the ride and ready to share in this amazing experience.  More about the Baker Lake Project here.

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