Kookum the Medicine Keeper

Before the introduction of modern medicine, the Kookums (Grandmothers) were the traditional keepers of knowledge of herbal plant medicines, including medicines for birth control. They were midwives for the community and had an understanding of a whole range of medicines that could cure illness that might strike their families. This knowledge was not exclusive, but was something that was shared between First Nations women and their children, including the Métis. 

This is why we must honor our grandmothers and our mothers, for they hold the wisdom and knowledge of generations of mothers and grandmothers before them.