Help Geordie tell the story of Jordan River Anderson

February 2nd marked the 20th anniversary of the passing of a true Canadian superhero: Jordan River Anderson. In tribute to Jordan’s life and legacy, as namesake and inspiration behind Jordan’s Principle, Geordie Theatre will be sharing a new play written by Indigenous playwright Yvette Nolan, premiering at the Centaur Theatre in April.

Presented with the permission and blessing of Jordan River Anderson’s family, Geordie hopes that by sharing Jordan’s story with hundreds of audience members, we will raise awareness around Jordan’s Principle and the work that still needs to be done to continue to strive for reconciliation. 20 years after his passing, and 18 years after Jordan’s Principle was passed by the House of Commons, Jordan’s story remains just as critical and relevant today, as the Canadian government continues to fail to meet the needs of First Nations youth and their communities.

Who Is Jordan River Anderson?

Jordan was a young boy from Norway House Cree Nation in Manitoba who was born with significant health issues. Due to ongoing disagreements between the provincial and federal governments as to who would be responsible for paying for Jordan’s at-home care, Jordan unfortunately passed away at the age of 5 in the hospital, having never been able to live in his own home.

What Is Jordan’s Principle?

After the passing of Jordan River Anderson, Canada’s House of Common passed Jordan’s Principle, a child-first policy to ensure First Nations youth have full and immediate access to the healthcare and social services they need.

Even though urgent requests are supposed to be processed within 24 hours, over 140,000 applications for Jordan’s Principle assistance are currently stuck in a backlog, leaving First Nations children without critical support for education, medical supplies and services, food, and more. On November 21, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal has ordered the federal government to address this crisis, with a detailed plan of action due by December 10. On December 20, the federal government challenged the ruling instead of taking immediate action, leaving First Nations youth and their communities without essential support and services. It’s time to ensure First Nations children receive the support they need and deserve. 

On Giving Tuesday, we launched a fundraising campaign to help reduce this unexpected financial shortfall, with a total goal of $50,000.

While Geordie is committed to presenting Jordan regardless of the costs to our organization, we need our community’s support now more than ever. Donations can be made below. All donations are eligible for a tax receipt.

Act Now!

Donate Today and help us tell Jordan’s story and uphold the rights and well-being of First Nations children. There is no reconciliation without truth, and every contribution, no matter the size, helps us raise awareness for Jordan’s Principle, bringing us one step closer to a world where all children are treated equally. 

If you are unable to donate at this time, or you would like to help us spread the word, please share our campaign with your friends, family, and community. Better yet, make a donation AND spread the word! 

Every child deserves equal access to health care, education, and social services. Jordan’s Principle ensures that First Nations children do not face discrimination and receive the care they need when they need it. Your donation can make a significant impact on their lives. 

We’re halfway to our goal, with $26,000 raised!

Thank you to a generous anonymous donor, the Jaclyn Fisher Foundation, and to all who have already supported our campaign!