Statement on passing of Siksika Elder Leo Pretty Young Man
Siksika Health Services would like to extend our prayers to the family of Siksika Nation elder Leo Pretty Young Man.
Leo was a man who took great pride in our Siksika way of life. He was a leader in many ways and Siksika Health would like to thank him for his leadership and contribution in guiding cultural components that will continue to guide Siksika Health in the future. He was involved with the implementation of the Awahkiyasoopokiyis program that was offered to families through Siksika Health Services.
Leo also worked along side SHS as a leader during the Covid-19 pandemics to ensure that the 2020-2022 Siksika Sundance was practiced in a safe and respectable manner and ensure we followed protocols safely. He provided traditional knowledge and teachings to Siksika Health employees and clients when needed. Recently during the last sundance Leo Pretty Young Man participated in a meeting with Siksika Health Services and recommended that our traditional practices of smudging and prayer be included in hospital facilities to help our people.
He said this is the the utmost importance and to have our culture recognized and have our people practice our traditional ways as needed. He was not only a traditional leader of the society’s but he was also a great horseman and the equine teachings he passed on to many young men will be forever remembered.
In a recent conversation with Leo, he mentioned that it is important that our knowledge keepers continue to teach the young about our traditional way of life because it belongs to all of Siksika. We’d like to wish our sincere condolences to the family.
