Introduction: A Personal Reflection on Reconciliation
As I reflect on ALIGN’s journey toward reconciliation and our commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) Calls to Action, I am reminded that this work is not a single destination—it is an ongoing journey. Together, we paddle forward, guided by the wisdom of those before us and the shared responsibility to create meaningful change.
In our last newsletter, we outlined key initiatives for the coming year—decisions about funding models, legislation, self-determination, and the future of child and family care. Across Alberta, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities are reclaiming the care of their children and families, each at their own pace.
ALIGN has approached this work with thoughtfulness, listening, and deep respect, guided by ceremony, traditional medicines, and the voices of Elders. This journey is shaped by the land, the people, and the interconnectedness we all share.
Advancing Reconciliation
How do you, as an agency, advance reconciliation? ALIGN is here to support you in developing practical and actionable plans. We hope you are advancing your thinking, planning, and practices to create meaningful change. Reconciliation is not a destination but a journey. For over a decade, we’ve focused on providing resources, educational materials, tips, and training to support your progress.
Now is the time to develop, share, and implement a clear reconciliation plan. Work collaboratively with Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to build trust and create shared benefits. Reconciliation is about reflection, learning, and action. It begins with examining our own biases, understanding where they come from, and committing to doing better. As the Late Honorable Murray Sinclair reminded us, reconciliation is about re-establishing respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.
ALIGN’s Commitment
At ALIGN, we have taken significant steps to honor traditional practices and support reconciliation. Some of our actions include:
- Engaging Elders and ceremony to guide our initiatives.
- Partnering with Indigenous communities to create resource-sharing networks.
- Amplifying Indigenous voices in policy and decision-making.
- Offering culturally relevant training and workshops.
- Continuously learning about Indigenous history and the impacts of colonialism, including the 60s Scoop and residential schools.
- Acknowledging the territories on which we live and work.
- Supporting Indigenous staff and agencies.
- Practicing in ceremony and integrating land acknowledgments into daily practices.
These efforts aim to build understanding and foster meaningful change.
Indigenous Cultural Understanding Framework (ICUF)
To support agencies and staff in this work, we developed the Indigenous Cultural Understanding Framework (ICUF). This principle-based framework focuses on healthy relationships and foundational approaches to working with Indigenous peoples. Created in consultation with Elders and knowledge keepers, ICUF is a living document, designed to evolve and adapt over time.
Well-Being Initiative and Toolkit
In addition to ICUF, we introduced the Well-Being Initiative and Toolkit. This resource bridges Western and Indigenous worldviews, offering ethical guidelines and space to evaluate how families, agencies, and communities are thriving. It emphasizes balance, reciprocity, and interconnectedness with the land, animals, and the cosmos.
Legislative Milestones
The passing of The Act Respecting First Nation, Inuit, and Métis Children, Youth, and Families was a significant moment for reconciliation. This legislation affirms the inherent rights of Indigenous communities to lead their own child and family services, aligning with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the TRC’s Calls to Action.
Building Relationships
ALIGN hosted four “Walking the Children Home” events, creating opportunities for relationship-building between Indigenous communities and agencies. With each session, participation grew, and we are excited to see these connections continue to strengthen.
ALIGN also hosted “Empowering Futures: A Gathering for Indigenous Child-Welfare Sovereignty.” This event facilitated an opportunity for vital conversations, provided valuable insights, and continues to honour our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.
Looking Ahead: Your Role in Reconciliation
ALIGN remains dedicated to offering resources, training, and opportunities for collaboration. As we move forward, we encourage you to:
🔸 Engage with Indigenous communities and seek out knowledge-sharing opportunities.
🔸 Develop and share your reconciliation plans within your agency.
🔸 Attend ALIGN events to deepen your learning and connections.
Reconciliation is a shared journey—one that requires reflection, respect, and action. Together, we can support Indigenous children, youth, and families in reclaiming their stories, their care, and their futures.
Let’s continue paddling forward, side by side.
📌 Explore ALIGN’s reconciliation resources and upcoming events.
📧 Have questions or want to collaborate? Contact rhondab@alignab.ca