Last year I was emotionally distraught as many Canadians were to hear of the discovery of unmarked graves of Indigenous children in our country.  I asked by way of a Facebook comment on a First Nation community’s post about how I could help.  They suggested that I take responsibility to learn about Reconciliation.   

I began with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation NCTR, who has been charged to listen to Survivors and their families about their experiences and effects of the residential school system.   

The NCTR defines reconciliation in this way:

“Reconciliation is about establishing and maintaining a mutually respectful relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples in this country. In order for that to happen, there has to be awareness of the past, an acknowledgement of the harm that has been inflicted, atonement for the causes, and action to change behaviour.” 

To redress the legacy of residential schools and advance the process of Canadian reconciliation, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission makes 94 calls to action.  If you haven’t already read it, please use the link to become more educated about these action items and encourage your local politicians to act on them as well.  Imagine a Canada where everyone understands that we are one, connected, and working together to achieve reconciliation. 

The origin of the mediation work that I do came from Indigenous tribal leaders who, thousands of years ago, used the circle approach to bring people together to resolve social conflict.  I am grateful for the wisdom that has been passed on from Elders, colleagues, and students to gain knowledge and appreciation for the beautiful culture that our Indigenous People have passed on. 

June 21^st is National Indigenous Peoples Day to recognize and celebrate the cultures and contributions of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Indigenous peoples of Canada.  I hope you can make time to educate yourself on the 94 calls to action. 

Miigwetch,