Sweat lodge builder receives diversity award

A public servant who oversaw the construction of a sweat lodge on the Prince Edward Island Youth Centre grounds has received the Premier’s Diversity Leadership Award for 2017.

Allan Curley, the youth centre’s manager, had the sweat lodge constructed in collaboration with the Aboriginal community. The annual award celebrates those who have demonstrated their commitment to diversity and inclusion in the public service. 

“The sweat lodge is but one example of Allan Curley reaching out to reflect the diverse population with which he works,” Premier Wade MacLauchlan said. “Allan’s actions demonstrate the commitment to diversity that makes us stronger as a public service and as an Island community.”

Curley and his staff had the sweat lodge constructed to help them better meet the unique needs of both young and adult Aboriginal offenders in a way that reflects the community’s traditions and practices. They worked closely with Aboriginal leaders to gather the materials required to develop and operate the lodge.

Construction was completed in the fall of 2016 with the goal of having the first sweat by the end of this month.

The Premier’s Diversity Leadership  Award is presented during provincial Public Service Week, which continues to tomorrow, June 16.

Media contact:
Wayne MacKinnon
(902) 314-3407
wemackinnon@gov.pe.ca