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.
NIPD Celebration Photo Gallery and Sponsor Thank Yous
Click any image to view a full size in light box.
Progress on our Fundraising Goal of $50,000.00
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to our special fundraiser enabling us to maintain our reconciliation efforts!
We continue to apply for all available funding sources.
Learn why the fundraiser was necessary at this link.
July 25, 2025
A heartfelt thank you to Canada Life!
Circles for Reconciliation is incredibly grateful for Canada Life’s generous $20,000 donation. This support comes at a critical moment while we await crucial grant decisions in July 2025, allowing us to regain our normal momentum in the reconciliation journey so many are waiting to begin.
Thank you, Canada Life, your support makes a difference.
Donations totalling $2788.63 have also been received.
The Circles for Reconciliation team is pleased to present our 2024 Newsletter in a “flip book” style which can also be downloaded. We know that you will find many stories of hope and advancement of the reconciliation journey within the pages.
Edited and designed by Leena Tetrault
Click on the small image to view.
This particular edition is dedicated to the hard work and life of Rick Demas (our previous editor) as a Residential School Survivor and all others who were in or never returned home from these terrible schools. Rick passed away suddenly on April 8, 2024.
Mínwastá Kákike (to repair forever)