A major theme running through the conference was the (at times) very difficult discussion on reconciliation and equality. I overheard at table discussions a community and business leader saying that until recently he knew very little about the history of the Residential Schools and the enormous impact that has had on subsequent generations. How do we reshape our relationship with indigenous peoples? How do we collectively listen and collaboratively move forward? Cindy Blackstock, from First Nations Child and Family Caring Society of Canada gave a moving presentation which you can view here: Plenary with Cindy Blackstock.
We know that belonging is at the heart of building more resilient places to live, work and play. And we know that we are each responsible for working towards understanding what belonging means so that we can continue to model it in the work we do in our communities. To explore belonging further check out this report which uses the lens of social participation to better understand how we as individuals feel that we belong: Belonging: Exploring Connection to Community.
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