National Adult Literacy Database

This week, we are launching 8 stories from Prince George, BC and as a special event you can read their stories as well as hear them. The learners are from two programs in Prince George : the Native Friendship Centre as well as College and Career Preparation at the College of New Caledonia.

Russell Haskell is a native of the Carrier nation with Gitxsan/Wet'suwet'en ancestry. Russell was born in Vanderhoof, BC and was raised in Middle River, BC. His father's trapline was called Eagle Creek Lodge. He went to the Lejac Residential School until it closed in 1974. He then moved to Prince George, BC to finish his schooling at Sacred Heart School and the Prince George College. Russell grew up with two cultures - the European culture and religion as well as his Native culture and religion. Knowing both cultures has had a profound impact upon his life as a Native artist. He believes very strongly in his people and all the other races on Mother Earth. He also believes that there is a balance in life between the human beings and the four legged creatures. If one group is off balance, so too will the others. Russell is currently enrolled in an Adult Basic Education program called Project Refocus at the Prince George Native Friendship Centre where he hopes to achieve his GED in June of this year.