Directed by Jimmy Blais, Jordon is play which brings the story the Jordon Principle on the stage at the Cultch until November 15.
Jordan River Anderson was born in 1999 with multiple complex medical needs. In 2001, a hospital-based team decided that Jordan’s needs would best be met in a specialized foster home closer to his home community. However, federal and provincial governments argued over financial responsibility for Jordan’s proposed in-home services.
During these conflicts, Jordan remained in hospital, even though it was not medically necessary for him to be there. Jordan died in 2005 at the age of 5, never having had the opportunity to live in his family’s home.
Jordan’s death ignited a movement to uphold human rights for all First Nations children through the creation of the child-first principle called “Jordan’s Principle.”
In 2007, the House of Commons passed Jordan’s Principle in memory of Jordan. It was a commitment that First Nations children would get the products, services and supports they need, when they need them and payments would be worked out later.
Today, Jordan’s Principle is a legal obligation with no end date. It carries forward Jordan’s legacy by ensuring First Nations children can access the products, services and supports they need, when they need them. Jordan’s Principle continues to uphold the child-first approach that began with Jordan’s story and will remain an important commitment to First Nations children and families for generations to come.
The play that depicts Jordan River Anderson as a superhero. Awakening in a hospital, Jordan discovers newfound abilities to speak and move, guided by his spirit bear companion, Maskwa. The story addresses the healthcare challenges faced by Indigenous children, highlighting the significance of Jordan’s Principle in ensuring equal healthcare for First Nations youth. Jordan represents hope and resilience, reflecting the broader struggle for justice within Indigenous communities.
Braiden Houle as Jordan and Wahsontí:io Kirby as Maskwa bring Jordon’s story to life in the traditional indigenous storytelling fashion riving traditional language, music and song. The rhythm of the story is give pace by the rhythm of the traditional drum sound.
Jim Blais has done an incredible job on weaving the story into the storytelling art form. The play was created by and indigenous led team with Jordon River Anderson’s family.
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