Memorial Tribute to Elder Pauline Shirt

Elder Pauline Shirt was a grandmother, community activist, teacher, mother of Indigenous Harm Reduction Activist Les Harper, and beloved to many. She received the Order of Ontario for her lifetime of “timely and earnest contributions to Indigenous education, cultural revitalization and holistic wellness within Indigenous communities while building relationships and understanding across diverse peoples.” Pauline was the founder of Kapapamahchakwew Wandering Spirit School, an Indigenous-led alternative school rooted in Indigenous knowledge and teachings for Indigenous students. Pauline led countless ceremonies at Moss Park before and after it became a sanctioned site, and continually provided medicines, food, and many wellness gifts to the Moss Park community. Pauline’s generosity with her care and teachings was deeply felt by everyone in the Moss Park community. Her wisdom, compassion, and strength reverberated throughout our work together. Our hearts are with her family, friends, and communities in this time of grief.