News Archives: Elder Theresa Gladue: An Inspiring NWP Presence
Monday, April 29th, 2024
NWP Elder in Residence Theresa Gladue
Elder Theresa Gladue, is an inspiring presence at NWP. As the polytechnic’s Elder in Residence, she shares her Indigenous knowledge, while providing cultural guidance and support to our learning community.
Her experiences have shaped who she is today, and at every chance, Elder Theresa is helping to shape others with impactful storytelling and teachings. With this in mind, it is not surprising that she wrote and produced a play that showcases her personal experiences as an Indigenous woman.
The Cab Ride Home tackles a myriad of pressing issues from racism and residential school to spousal abuse, police brutality, and missing and murdered Indigenous women. Much more than a theatrical performance, the play offers a powerful narrative and reflects her belief that anyone can create and tell their own stories.
"You don't have to be famous to write a play. You can take a part of your life and make dialogue out of it and you don't need to be super smart," she asserts.
The play, based on a true story, is filled with content inspired by real-life conversations, and is presented in a unique style that Gladue describes as a mixture of serious issues and humour. The Cab Ride Home was originally one of Gladue’s short stories, penned in a creative writing course she took as a student. After encouragement from others, she decided to adapt her story for the stage. “It was a lot of work, and at one point I thought ‘oh no what did I get myself into’,” Gladue admits. The Cab Ride Home was then cast and performed, and it has been 20 years since it has seen a stage.
Gladue was inspired to revive The Cab Ride Home after attending the performance of Only Drunks and Children Tell the Truth in 2023 at the Grande Prairie Live Theatre (GPLT). Beth Zazula had directed Only Drunks and Children Tell the Truth and Gladue knew she wanted Zazula to bring The Cab Ride Home to life. Gladue is excited to see it performed live again.
With the help of Zazula and in collaboration with NWP Circle of Indigenous Students, the Grande Prairie Friendship Centre, the Native Counselling Services of Alberta, and NWP’s drama instructor Misha Albert, The Cab Ride Home hit the stage at NWP’s Collins Recital Hall earlier this month.
“Writing, putting on skits, and storytelling is something I have always enjoyed doing. It’s a fun way for me to be creative.”
Gladue's academic and creative writing journey started over 20 years ago at Northern Lights College in Dawson Creek, British Columbia where she studied Social Work. Her experiences during this time were instrumental in shaping her understanding of societal dynamics and fueled her passion for advocating for Indigenous rights. "It just becomes part of you when you're an Indigenous person," Gladue said, reflecting on her experiences.
Before joining Northwestern Polytechnic two years ago, Gladue built an impressive career dedicated to community service and education. She served on the town council in Dawson Creek, battling the challenges that came with being an Indigenous woman in a largely public position. “People would say horrible things to me, not believing that I should be in the position I was,” said Gladue. Despite the hurdles, she remained steadfast and committed to her cause.
"For people, growing and changing your mindset is uncomfortable, and people are not always willing to make that change. They're comfortable where they are. So, when you are willing to change how you think about people, you’re opening yourself up to a lot," Gladue detailed, discussing the resistance she faced.
After her term in public service, Gladue took on the role of Indigenous Advisor at Northern Lights College. Her dedication to championing Indigenous rights and education remained at the forefront of her work.
In recognition of her significant contributions to the community and the arts, Northern Lights College is awarding her an Honorary Associate of Arts degree. This accolade is a nod to Gladue’s impactful work, including her play The Cab Ride Home.
Now at Northwestern Polytechnic, Gladue continues to nurture students and create a positive, educational environment. Gladue plays a key role in providing spiritual and cultural support to all students, with a deep understanding of the Indigenous community, its culture, protocols, and traditions. “I guide the Circle of Indigenous Students, promote the integration of Indigenous ways within the urban environment, and welcome all races and cultures,” Gladue explained. As the Elder in Residence, Gladue has comprehensive knowledge of the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada, “I support the NWP community with my knowledge of the impact of residential schools,” she added.
"I enjoy working with students. I really do. I really like the students. I really like Northwestern Polytechnic. I like the environment because there's so many people, supportive people, that are so helpful and so kind," she shared.
Elder Theresa Gladue's story has many chapters remaining. From student to Elder to playwriter to honorary degree recipient, every component of her journey is underpinned by creativity and dedication. But most importantly, her knowledge and teachings continue to resonate, proving that every life experience can be transformed into a story that encourages and educates others.
