Recapping Indigenous Learning Circles at UTSC

Calls to Action: Indigenous Learning Circles at UTSC

Pictured: ceremonial mat and talking stick used during the learning circles

During the second term of my first year, I started attending Calls to Action Indigenous Learning Circles; they were organized by Indigenous members/faculty at the school, along with allies among the community, led by Elder Wendy. Generally we met once a week to discuss different weekly topics concerning the journey to truth, reconciliation, and justice. A few key topics/terms included Gladue hearings (legal/court proceedings specifically for Indigenous individuals; emphasis on restorative justice), the burden of truth, diversity within, and 'kiyam' (Cree for "let it be").

I was unfortunately one of the only consistent student attendees at this program throughout the semester; I try to raise awareness about the importance of taking part in community and self education on Indigenous justice - it is the responsibility of every settler residing and thriving on the land we call Canada. I truly hope that the school is able to organize this program again in 2020 as it was a truly wonderful and memorable experience for me; I believe that anyone else who chooses to attend would also feel the same.

The people that I met at the Learning Circles brought something new and exciting to discuss each and every session; I found myself always learning more and leaving with new considerations for working towards Indigenous justice and reconciliation.

At first, I found myself discouraged at the inability to engage people with this issue as I had originally anticipated. Since starting my petition and social media accounts in grade 12, I struggled to get the support from even my classmates at the time. Outreach on social media has been slow, and sometimes discouraging, because I've felt like what I feel so passionate about doesn't gain traction among the larger public. A member of the Rotary HIP (Honoring Indigenous Peoples) who participated in the Learning Circles, John Curry, explained to me the 40/40/20 rule. Also a method for marketing, he used the analogy for getting your message to reach other people - even though there is a 40% that is in opposition & unlikely to change, there is a 40% that is accepting of your attitude, and there is the 20% still open to persuasion, unlearning, and change in perspective. Overall, the message to keep trying and never stop putting your voice out there for things that you feel passionate about. As much as advocacy and education over social media may feel unproductive, the little things do make a difference.

By the final gathering, we described reconciliation as encompassing understanding, acknowledgement, and moving forward. Reconciliation is a national project, and a shared project; reconciliation begins with everyone.

I believe that it is every settlers' duty (like myself) to take an active role in practicing unlearning and decolonization in efforts to shift towards the process of reconciliation. This will be impossible to achieve without fully recognizing and accepting the past, while working in solidarity and out of respect for the rights and freedom of Indigenous Peoples in Canada.

I appreciate everyone who has taken the time to read this post, I'm excited to finally have written this article and share it with the online community. I'd also like to acknowledge my privilege for being able to live and thrive in this space with my family, where I have the opportunity to feel safe, secure, and prosperous. Stay tuned for more posts in the upcoming weeks!

Wishing everybody a very happy and safe holiday season.
- eco feminist ally 🌎💚