Indigenous Peoples have been on Turtle Island since the beginning, generations prior to Settlers, yet our history is largely unknown. In order to bring the country to a place where we can walk together in Truth and Reconciliation, we need to talk about the oppressive history, resulting trauma, and evidence that shows that Canada is not as inclusive as many think. This session is intended to start moving us towards common understanding while creating a safe ethical space with the Reconciliation Circle that will be held right afterwards.

Reconciliation Circle: While we learn about the Truth of Indigenous Peoples, there are stereotypes, biases, privileges, and past teachings that need to be faced. We want to ensure that we address any feelings of shame, blame, guilt, anger, sadness and the like in a healthy way so that we walk out of the session in a calm and respectful way. The Reconciliation Circle is a tool to create a safe and ethical space to address any negative emotions that have bubbled up while engaging in the prior session.

Suggested Readings Prior to the Session: https://www.macleans.ca/society/the-lonely-death-of-chanie-wenjack/

Participation is FREE but attendance is limited. Register today.

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Speaker Bios

Jessica Vandenberghe, P.Eng., M.Sc. is Dene Tha born and raised in a very inclusive German family in northern Alberta. She is an Indigenous Professional Engineer, Industrial Professor, and the Assistant Dean (Outreach) at the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Alberta. Through her consulting firm, Guiding Star Consulting, Jessica contributes to Truth and Reconciliation, acting as a bridge to Indigenous communities, talks to Calls to Action implementation, and works on TRC awareness. She is a mother of two and is passionate about equity, diversity and inclusion.

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Founded in 2001, Women In Leadership Foundation (WIL) delivers inspirational programs that bring women together to collaborate in the development of their leadership skills & creates positive change in the future of women’s leadership.

Learn more at womeninleadership.ca.