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Saskatchewan Polytechnic is now the keeper of the Talking Quilt, a cherished cultural artifact created by the women of James Smith Cree Nation. The women gathered to sew quilt squares while sharing stories of hardships, including residential school experiences and abuse they have experienced over the course of their lives.  

Founder Ruby Head started working on the quilt in 2000. Each square of the quilt tells a unique story, highlighting matriarchal journeys, truths and the healing within families. The quilt became known as the Talking Quilt, since the women shared their experiences while sewing squares together.  

Elder Sandra Head shared the story of the Talking Quilt with Eileen Zaba, Sask Polytech Psychiatric Nursing faculty, and Lindsey Boechler, Sask Polytech Centre for Health Research, Innovation and Scholarship (CHRIS) researcher, while they were working with the community on an applied research project. On February 6, 2025, transfer of care for the Talking Quilt was passed from the women of James Smith Cree Nation to Sask Polytech.

quilt

 

First quadrant of the talking quilt with six unique squares
Second quadrant of the quilt with six unique squares
Third quadrant of the quilt with six unique squares
Fourth quadrant of the quilt with six unique squares

 

Oral history of the Talking Quilt

Some of the stories in the videos may be difficult to hear and could evoke strong or negative emotions for some viewers. If you are in distress or know of someone who needs support, there are resources available. A helpline for residential school survivors can be reached toll free at the Indian Residential School Survivors Society 1-800-721-0066 or 24-hour Crisis Line 1-866-925-4419. The Government of Saskatchewan lists mental health services near you where you can access support.  

Saskatchewan Polytechnic students can contact Counselling Services. Saskatchewan Polytechnic employees can contact the Employee Family Assistance Program (Sask Polytech login required).

Joan Daniels

Sandra Head

Cecile Moostoos

Tena Moostoos

Cosette Moostoos

Sharon Starblanket