Indigenous Awareness Day
Now that we teach Canadian History differently in our institutions, are we sure that we are transmitting teaching that is faithful to Indigenous reality?
The awareness days set up by Kina8at allow a powerful and refreshing foray into the indigenous world. Masterfully led by Anicinape hereditary chief Dominique Rankin and Marie-Josée Tardif, this meeting will forever transform your vision of our common history, between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people of this country.
This day (or half-day) of training is a must for professional circles!
Both powerful and gentle, it allows us to become aware of the realities of people who have experienced the difficulties of colonization, in addition to discovering the indigenous wisdom of interpersonal skills and living together. This downtime, where we dive into the heart of the indigenous universe, allows us to reconnect with the Anicinape in us: the authentic human being, in harmony with nature.
This meeting is proposed as a duo by Dominique Rankin, hereditary Anicinape (Algonquin) chief and Marie-Josée Tardif. It begins with a powerful scenario: “the Circles Exercise”. Enriched by Dominique's testimony on Indian residential schools, this training leaves no one indifferent and has enjoyed enormous success in all the professional environments in which it is conducted.
- Authentic and rich encounter in the indigenous universe
- The “Circle of Reconciliation”: a striking exercise and testimony about the impacts of the Indian Act and Indian Residential Schools
- Discovery of indigenous philosophy, source of well-being and joy of living
PROCEDURE
1. Introduction in the form of a conference, by Marie-Josée and Dominique (60 minutes)
- History of the Anicinapek seen by the Anicinapek
- A culture and a population in rebirth
- Ancient wisdom for a modern world
2. “Circle of Reconciliation” exercise, led by Marie-Josée (30 min.)
- Impacts of the Indian Act
- Importance of the circle in indigenous societies
- Better understand Indigenous injuries
3. Testimony from Dominique on the ordeal of the Indian Residential School and his path to healing (30 min.)
4. Break
5. Talking circles (60 min.)
- Subgroups of around 20 people are created
- Marie-Josée and Dominique each guide a sub-group (Other sub-groups will be formed, if your group exceeds 50 people)
- These talking circles aim to provide feedback on learning, awareness, reflections or emotions aroused so far
- The activity itself allows you to experience the strength and beauty of talking circles, a technique that has proven itself in indigenous traditions
6. Conclusion or meal, if you continue for a full day
7. Pipe ceremony (90 min.)
- Feedback on morning activity
- Teachings on the basics of indigenous philosophy: circle and four directions, feminine-masculine dynamics, symbolism of sacred objects such as pipes
- Pipe ceremony
- Water ceremony
8. Conclusion and little ritual at the end, to end in a burst of laughter! (30 minutes)
Looking forward to experiencing these beautiful and great moments of RECONCILIATION with you!
** Please note that this activity must often be planned 1 year in advance taking into account the facilitators' schedules.
For more information: info@kina8at.ca