Stoney Creek Woman

Mary John’s biography is a significant contribution to First Nations women’s literature. Originally written in 1988, it is now in its 15th printing. This remarkable Carrier woman (1913-2004) was a respected elder, midwife, counsellor and educator who fought tirelessly to improve conditions and opportunities for First Nations people and to revive cultural traditions. In 1997 John was awarded the Order of Canada for outstanding service to her community; for fostering significant economic, social and political change on reserves; bridging understanding between cultures; and for preserving and promoting First Nations culture and language.

Moran, a social worker, and Mary John became politically active together in the 1950s. Moran also wrote Judgment at Stoney Creek.

Working as a social worker for the government, the author had her first contact with the Stoney Creek Reserve in the 1950s. There she met Mary John, an Aboriginal mother of twelve from the Carrier First Nations in northern BC. Mary’s life story involves the hardships of racism, sickness, and poverty, and her personal struggle to survive. Originally published in 1988, this updated edition features a new preface and new photographs.

This title won the Lieutenant Governor’s Medal, BC Historical Federation. A Teacher’s Guide is available from publisher.