Theodore Fontaine: A Remarkable Elder

May 30, 2021Posted inNews Archive
Theodore Fontaine died on May 10, 2021. He was an Elder with wisdom, compassion, forgiveness, humility, fearlessness in telling the truth of the past, all coming from a deep sense of pride in who he was and his people. His book, “Broken Circle, The Dark Legacy of Indian Residential Schools” is a remarkable memoir of his years in the Fort Alexander Indian Residential School, from 1948-1958 and the Assiniboia Indian Residential School from 1958-1960. For years, he supported survivors and spoke about reconciliation with those who were perpetrators of his abuse. Theodore was also a friend and advisor to Circles…

Thomas Berger

May 15, 2021Posted inNews Archive
Our video tribute to the life and work of a true Canadian hero, Thomas Berger, who died on May 11 2021. In honouring the life of Thomas Berger, the honourable Murray Sinclair describes how Thomas Berger inspired the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada to follow his model of going to the people. The TRC interviewed over 6,000 people as it crisscrossed the country. YouTube video link

Dispelling Misconceptions about Indigenous People (national version)

March 20, 2021Posted inGathering Theme
MISCONCEPTION #9: There are no qualified Indigenous workers to hire.The Facts: Indigenous peoples have the education, skills and expertise required for jobs in all economic sectors.In 2016, the Indigenous population had a college/trades completion rate of 35.7% compared to non-Indigenous populations of 33.1%.19Indigenous young people (15-24 years) represent the fastest growing source of new workers, entrepreneurs and professionals.20Many services are available to help employers find qualified Indigenous employees. Use the controls on the grey bar below to access more viewing options and the download button.

Violations of the Spirit of Treaties

February 10, 2021Posted inGathering Theme
This theme briefly summarizes seven major violations of the intent of the treaties to recognize, respect and acknowledge each Indigenous nation. It brings together an overview of policies and practices that have had, and continue to have, such a profound impact on the lives of Indigenous people in Canada. Use the controls on the grey bar below to access more viewing options and the download button.

Our Nation to Nation Partnerships (BC Edition)

November 26, 2020Posted inGathering Theme
Treaties did not “surrender or cede land”. In the understanding of Indigenous people they are considered sacred agreements between Nations, which covered more than just a transfer of territory.Treaties, while sometimes written over 100 to 200 years ago, are living partnerships and relevant documents today. Canadians are asked to learn about treaties and engage with Indigenous communities, embracing “We are all Treaty People” in an effort to better understand the partnership we have on shared land. Treaties represent promises made to Indigenous Nations that, in many cases, are simply not kept. Use the controls on the grey bar below to…

The Sixties Scoop

November 25, 2020Posted inGathering Theme
While the treatment of children varied from family to family, the children are united in the shared impacts on their connections to culture, identity and languages. While the operation of the child welfare system has experienced changes since the 1960s, it remains a critical failure in upholding basic rights, support for health and for the well being of Indigenous children in Canada.   Use the controls on the grey bar below to access more viewing options and the download button.

Dispelling Misconceptions (B.C. Edition)

November 25, 2020Posted inGathering Theme
3. MISCONCEPTIONS: Indigenous peoples are responsible for their current situation.The Facts: Many factors have contributed to the situation of Indigenous peoples in CanadaPrior to European contact, Indigenous communities were strong and self-sufficient. While many Indigenous peoples were never conquered, the process of colonization resulted in their complete loss of control over their lives. For example:According to article 32 (1) of the Indian Act no band or band member could sell anything to anyone other than another band member without approval in writing from the superintendent.The Pass system, which was not repealed until 1941, required written permission from the Indian agent…

The Indian Act: Disempowering, Assimilatory and Exclusionary

November 25, 2020Posted inGathering Theme
Getting beyond or removing the Indian Act, however, is not as simple as it sounds. The paradox of the act is that it is also integral to securing the legal protection of reserve land for the common use and occupation of First Nations—and there remains very little Canadian territory that is set aside specifically for Indigenous groups. For First Nations, the only way out from under the Indian Act is through the negotiation of self-government agreements, a process that is itself subject to some staunch criticisms. Use the controls on the grey bar below to access more viewing options and…
Canada Life and Power Corporation Contribute $70,000.00 to fostering meaningful relationships for reconciliation

Canada Life and Power Corporation Contribute $70,000.00 to fostering meaningful relationships for reconciliation

October 7, 2020Posted inFunders
Canada Life and Power Corporation of Canada are pleased to announce a $70,000 contribution to Circles for Reconciliation. The contribution will assist with the project’s national expansion to build meaningful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people and advance the process of reconciliation into communities across Canada. “Building strong relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous through awareness, knowledge and conversation is exactly what Circles For Reconciliation aims to achieve,” said Jeff Macoun, President and Chief Operating Officer, Canada, Canada Life. “We’re proud to support this important organization and hope many Winnipeggers and Canadians will seek out an opportunity to participate in a…