‘I forgive:’ Boushie family honoured at Sask. conference

A member of Colten Boushie’s family offered forgiveness to the man accused in the 22-year-old’s death on a farmyard last summer.

Colten’s uncle, Alvin Baptiste spoke at the First Nations Health Summit at TCU Place in Saskatoon Tuesday.

“We never forget Colten. It’s hard to see my family struggling. To see them hurt,” said Baptiste.

The conference brings together experts and leaders from across the province to discuss ways to improve health outcomes in First Nation communities.

Baptiste opened the conference with a message that traditional ceremonies, such as round dances and sweats, are keys to the healing journey.

“I try to find ways to heal my family. The only way I can think of is going back to our traditional ways, our ceremonies.”

His comments come less than a week after Gerald Stanley was ordered to stand trial for second-degree murder in Boushie’s death.

The 22-year-old, from Red Pheasant First Nation, was shot and killed on Gerald Stanley’s farm near Biggar, Sask. on Aug. 9, 2016.

Emotional moment as delegates here give hugs and condolences to Colten Boushie family #yxe pic.twitter.com/Cxrwp0HTyd

— Brent Bosker (@brentbosker) April 11, 2017

Baptiste said while he is still struggling with the grief, he wants to move on with his life.

“I forgive this man that took my nephew’s life. I don’t want to carry this anger through life,” he said afterwards.

“To bottle this anger what it does it wrecks your life, totally.  I want to enjoy life.”

Baptiste said his heart was touched when everyone in the room offered hugs and condolences during a blanket ceremony to honour the family.

Boushie family honoured with traditional blankets at FSIN health summit #yxe pic.twitter.com/k2nk3UWNGS

— Brent Bosker (@brentbosker) April 11, 2017