Elder etiquette

What Elders do?

Elders in Residence provide cultural counselling and guidance. To both individuals and organizations. Some of the tasks that they are frequently called upon for are providing openings, leading ceremonies, facilitating cultural workshops and providing advisory support on curriculum, policy and projects (Chalifoux, 2024).

When considering visiting with an Elder it is important to understand that their time is finite and precious. If you are seeking an Elder’s advice and guidance, first ask yourself if there are other resources that can potentially answer the same question? Be prepared to build a relationship with the Elder over time. Do not expect quick and easy answers. Elders are not tokenistic additions to your work.

Etiquette for engaging an Elder

When you are working with an elder there are aspects of your interaction that are Protocols specific to Indigenous communities these will be discussed in the next section. There is general good etiquette that you can use when interacting with Elders to show them respect and courtesy for their years of experience on this earth.

• The Elder should receive an honorarium your organization and/or the Elder may have preferences or guidelines in this matter.
• If the Elder is travelling to you, you are expected to cover the cost of their travel and that of a companion or helper.
• Help them find accessible parking.
• Meet them at easy to find locations or escort them from their car to the meeting places.
• Offer the Elder refreshments.
• If the Elder is invited to a banquet or feast offer to serve them or carry their plate.
• Ensure there is a quiet space for them to prepare if they will be offering Ceremony.
• Do not interrupt them even if they have been speaking at great length.

Etiquette for engaging an Elder virtually

Some situations may require that an Elder be engaged virtually for an event or program instead of in-person due to health or travel concerns. In these situations, additional considerations may be necessary:

• Not every Elder will be comfortable with a virtual environment or may have requirements around recording.
• Not every teaching or Indigenous Knowledge will be appropriate for the virtual environment.
• Offer options for Protocol such as mailing Protocol if they are comfortable with it, should distance or health matters prevent the gifting from being in-person.
• Offer honorariums for a local helper or family member to aid with the technology (First Peoples’ Cultural Council, 2021).
• Schedule extra meetings ahead of the event to find the best location for them to join and troubleshoot technology issues.
• Consider partnerships with organizations like local libraries or Native Friendship Centers to help host the Elder for a recording/live streaming space.