TL;DR: Creating new reconciliation training that encourages the coordination of care practices specific to Indigenous people in Western care systems.

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Update | November 15, 2024 

When we first came together to brainstorm this project, our conversations centered around the urgent changes we wanted to see in our daily lives. We discussed the need to transform the colonial approaches embedded in communication and systems that have historically marginalized Indigenous communities. The task ahead felt daunting, yet crucial.

Our initial meeting was a turning point. We connected with representatives from ISAN, Willow Feather Conversations that members of our group have been involved with before, and Shania from the ICS program, whom we were introduced to by Minds. Discovering that members of our community were already working toward the changes we envisioned was incredibly inspiring. It fueled our determination to transform our discussions into actionable, effective ideas.

We focused on addressing the colonial structures embedded in critical societal systems: policing, mental health services, hospitals, and other institutions that deeply impact our communities. Our vision became clearer: we needed to advocate for reconciliation training and ensure representation for Indigenous voices within these frameworks.

As a first step, we committed to developing comprehensive surveys for our communities. We knew the importance of listening to the needs and desires of our people. Our goal was to avoid imposing our ideas but instead, prioritize the perspectives of those we aim to serve. This community-driven approach set the stage for our next meeting, where we began shaping a plan to empower our communities to bring about meaningful change.