Building Authentic Indigenous Connections: A Call to Action for Educational Leaders and Non-Profit Board Members

As leaders in education and non-profit organizations, we often acknowledge the importance of honouring Indigenous lands and cultures through land acknowledgment statements. These statements are crucial, but they are only the first step on a meaningful journey of understanding, respect, and allyship.

I've had the privilege of joining hands with HAWI, led by the incredible Stacy Hill and Chandra Maracle from the Six Nations territory near Brantford (you can discover their transformative work here: https://www.wearehawi.com/). these courses have opened my eyes to the rich tapestry of Indigenous knowledge, history, and culture.

From participating in interactive, experiential history exercises to attending PowWows, these experiences have not only deepened my understanding but have also taught me how to demonstrate true allyship.

Many non-Indigenous individuals are unsure of how to take the next step beyond land acknowledgments. This is where courses and retreats like those offered by HAWI come in. They provide a safe and supportive space to learn, grow, and build bridges of trust between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

By taking these steps, we align our organizations with our mission, strengthen our land acknowledgments, and send a powerful message to our donors, staff, and the public that we are committed to creating meaningful change.

Moreover, our actions as educational leaders and non-profit board members can inspire others to follow suit.

Together, we can foster a culture of respect, understanding, and allyship that transcends boundaries.

I encourage all my fellow leaders to explore the incredible opportunities that HAWI and similar organizations offer. Let’s move beyond words and into action, working hand in hand with Indigenous communities to create a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

To book your board retreat, email hawi@wearehawi.com

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