What we do
The aim of Circles for Reconciliation is to establish trusting, meaningful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples as part of the 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).
The means to achieve this is the creation of small gatherings of an equal number of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in discussion circles.
Every Circle needs five Indigenous and five non-Indigenous participants. Relationships are built by equal voices.
How we do it
- Each group of ten participants, led by two trained facilitators, meets weekly or biweekly for seven gatherings 90 minutes in length.
- These seven meetings allow for the beginnings of respectful relationships, which the TRC stresses is the basis of reconciliation.
- The participants sit in a circle, providing greater opportunities for sharing and being respectful of traditional Indigenous values and customs.
- Themes for each Circle continue to be developed and, where necessary, are being adapted to different Indigenous customs and practices across Canada.
Did you know...?
November 25th is recognized globally as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, a day dedicated to raising awareness about gender-based violence, and in Canada, it holds particular significance for drawing attention to the ongoing crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit (MMIWG2S+) people.
There is a report to be released this November 25th in Manitoba that will mark the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence, a public awareness news alert running until December 10, World Human Rights Day. Throughout these 16 days, many organizations, governments, and communities release statements, host events, and publish progress updates that highlight both the urgency of the crisis and the need for sustained action.
The key foundational document addressing MMIWG2S+ violence is the National Inquiry’s Final Report, Reclaiming Power and Place, that was initially released on June 3rd, 2019. This landmark report outlined the systemic and historical roots of the violence and issued 231 Calls for Justice directed at all levels of government, institutions, newcomers and Canadians.
Since then, annual progress reports and reviews have tracked how these Calls for Justice are, or are not, being implemented. These updates often emerge during the 16 Days of Activism, offering an important moment for reflection, accountability, and renewed commitment to ending violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ people.
This November 25th , please take the time to learn, share, and advocate, because awareness is only the first step toward meaningful and lasting change.
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