Aboriginal - Girls Action Foundation

Sky Woman; A Symbol, an Inspiration, a Spirit
By: Megan Whyte - Age 21
As an Aboriginal artist and art educator, I strive to express and communicate the
identity issues native people face in terms of balancing First Nations communities
with the mainstream Canadian societies. The artworks I create are thus presented as
teaching tools for both native and non-native people to learn about the importance
of culture, the relevance of spirituality, and consequences of colonialism on native
identities.
In terms of the 21st century context of Aboriginal issues, I believe that leadership is an
important asset to our growth as a people. Leadership, for me, is about educating our
communities about the opportunities we face in a post-colonial world rather than focusing
on the troubles we have faced in the past; it is about helping to open the eyes of those who
refuse to look and motivating our people to take responsibility for our futures.
I believe that be a leader, one must possess social aptitude, initiative, innovation and desire
for social change. I look to people like my mother who believe in fighting to change our
future of drugs and alcohol through traditional ways, and to youth who see and believe in
this change itself—after all, today’s youth are tomorrow’s leaders. These people not only
have the strength to lead and represent the community voice, but also work to collaborate
and share ideas with fellow leaders. For me, what truly separates a strong leader from
any other leader is not the mindset or ability to act and adapt effectively; it is the heart to
inspire others to embark upon the journey towards a brighter future.
My seven-piece painting, entitled Sky Woman, is about the leadership and strength
Aboriginal women posses in both a historical context and today’s society. Standing proud
in her traditional attire, the essence of Sky Woman fearlessly pulls together the Iroquoian
clans to discuss the possibility for change. Although she was originally outcast from her
community, she holds her head high and bears her heart loud for the creation of a new
world—our world. I believe that within every Aboriginal Woman swirls the energy and
Spirit of Sky Woman; the spirit and energy that will guide us into the future of the First
Nations.
Megan Whyte
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