Each month, we’ll introduce one of the many groups, clubs, committees and non-profit societies that make our island community so special. This month’s S,DA’YES Truth & Reconciliation Circle report.
Q: First, can you tell us what your group is about, and what you do?
A: The purpose of the S,DA’YES Truth & Reconciliation Circle (STRC) is to hold a space on S,DA’YES (Pender Island) to create a new relationship between Canada’s Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
Participants support each other in their learning journey on the road to this new relationship. We meet regularly in a circle to explore issues of importance to reconciliation, particularly between ourselves and our W̱SÁNEĆ neighbours.
Q: When was S,DA’YES Truth & Reconciliation Circle started, and what sparked it?
A: The STRC came out of a series of gatherings held on S,DA’YES to prepare for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s major event in Vancouver in the fall of 2013.
Each event included a Circle in which attendees shared their thoughts arising from the presentations. Subsequently a group formed to consider a way to continue this experience of shared learning and exchange, on the topic of reconciliation. Out of those discussions the Pender Truth & Reconciliation Circle was formed.
Q: Do you hold any community events or initiate special projects? If so, what do you typically promote?
A: Our main focus is to educate ourselves about Canada’s, and British Columbia’s, relevant past and present in relation to Indigenous peoples. We do this by sharing our learning within the circle, and by gaining insights from the larger community.
Q: How often do you get together, and typically when? Can new members join anytime?
A: We meet about five times per year at the Anglican Church Hall. New members are always welcome. This month’s meeting will be on September 27, from 4 to 6 pm.
Q: What gets your members most excited in your meetings or activities?
A: Circle participants value the Circle experience particularly because of the sharing of Circle members’ responses to reading a book, watching a film, or hearing an Elder’s presentation.
We have had many participants express how important the Circle experience has been for them, and how it has shifted their thinking.
Q: What’s in the future for your organization? Anything exciting in the works, or dreams you would like to fulfill?
A: On Saturday, September 27, in honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September 30), we are welcoming two speakers from the Tsawout community in the W̱SÁNEĆ Nation. Please see our The Pender Post article this month for more details.
Q: Are there any special contributions you would like to highlight?
A: We think that we have contributed to keeping the issue of reconciliation alive on Pender, for example, raising awareness of Red Dress Day, honouring missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls.
Q: How can people get in touch?
A: If you want to learn more or be put on our mailing list, please get in touch with Monica Petrie or Madeline Emery.