Red Cliff Elder Protection Initiative - The Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa is launching the Tribal Adult Protective Services (TAPS) Demonstration Project to build a culturally grounded Elder Justice Initiative that protects the dignity, safety, and well-being of Tribal Elders. Rooted in the Ojibwe Seven Grandfather Teachings: Wisdom, Love, Respect, Bravery, Honesty, Humility, and Truth, this initiative will guide all efforts to prevent, identify, and respond to elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Over a 24-month period, the project will pursue several key objectives: conducting a comprehensive needs assessment; developing and adopting a culturally appropriate Red Cliff Elder Abuse Code; forming a multidisciplinary Elder Protection Team; and implementing a secure, interdepartmental data tracking system. These efforts will be supported by the delivery of training modules to tribal departments and the strengthening of partnerships with tribal, county, and national organizations. The project will engage community members and collaborate with partners such as the Inter Tribal Association of Arizona (IA2), Wisconsin Department of Health Services Adult Protective Services (WI DHS APS), and Bayfield County. These partnerships will ensure that best practices are adapted to reflect the values and traditions of the Red Cliff community. Anticipated outcomes include increased awareness and reporting of elder abuse, improved coordination among service providers, and the creation of sustainable systems for elder protection. This initiative honors our Elders by ensuring they are protected through culturally respectful, community-driven solutions.
