The Four Directions of Reconciliation

How do we reconcile what happened to First Nations people? Where do we start as colonial descendants to rebuild a proper and respectful relationship? As Canadians, we have a duty as members of the signed treaties to respond to calls from North America's first inhabitants. Canada has spent the better part of its existence trying to assimilate, control, and eliminate First Nations people.

Because of Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) 94 calls to action and Canada's adoption of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People (UNDRIP) in 2017 we are all tasked with reconciliation.

Where do we start in order to gain new perspectives? We need to venture inward, questioning our beliefs, our motives, and the imbalance that exists. In order for us to gain new knowledge and understanding we need to venture outward to experience the culture and beliefs of our neighbours. Although it would be best for everyone to experience it for themselves, I've attempted to document and present my journey so that others can see that it is in fact possible and beneficial.

The articles of UNDRIP presented on pages 74-157 gives us the opportunity to build a new understanding towards reconciliation. The images presented next to the articles gives us a reference to what rights First Nations currently exercise, and what rights they still fight for.

You will read about my own path of reconciliation, about the fears I faced and the limiting beliefs I had as I went on a personal journey to understand why we are still struggling to find balance and respect for each other.

I believe these images, stories, and knowledge will help more of non-indigenous Canadians understand our roles and responsibilities in these agreements we live under. They are meant to honour the truth, and help illuminate the inward path so that we all set the example of what reconciliation looks like after ones intentions and heart are aligned in such a way.