government discussion and implementation, with land issues following later.” Joseph offers suggestions for supporting healing: contributing to the building of healing centres, women’s centres, and language revitalization programs. He reminds us to “[b]e aware that cultural survival is a fundamental driver of an Indigenous community’s decision-making process.”
Why We Should Read Submitted by Ranji & David
W
hile the words “Truth and Reconciliation” are oft repeated, many Canadians don’t connect this to their everyday lives. The Josephs offer practical ways towards doing so. Throughout the book, the authors implore business leaders to treat Indigenous Peoples with dignity, offering the RESPECT model for working with Indigenous communities: Research, Examine, Strategize, Present, Evaluate, Customize, Transform. Just as a successful international businessperson would research legal and cultural differences before going to another country, “why wouldn’t you research the nation you’re consulting with or the community you’re visiting? It’s not up to the community to educate you.” A particularly compelling section of the book - that seems to be at the crux of it all - discusses self governance. “There is an emerging idea that the first steps in the treaty negotiation process should be personal and focused on community healing [of intergenerational trauma], followed by self-
The last chapter of the book talks about the personal side of reconciliation and offers suggestions for what individuals can do. Among these are discussions of the issue of cultural appropriation (such as Halloween costumes and sports team mascots). Joseph says, “When we understand what cultural appropriation is, why it’s harmful, disrespectful, and can even contribute to endangering Indigenous women and girls, then as a country, we are reconciling.”
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Using suggestions from this book we can move towards Joseph’s vision: “When we are reconciled we will live together in harmony, be gentle with one another, we will be caring and compassionate. When we are reconciled, every person living here will live with dignity, purpose, and value.” The Warmland Book & Film Collective – begun in 2018 as a response to the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada – explores, celebrates, and learns from Indigenous authors and filmmakers. We are welcoming new members – if you enjoy friendly, spirited, and interesting conversation, email us at WarmlandBFC@ gmail.com for the zoom link. We next meet online March 9th to discuss Tilly and the Crazy Eights by Monique Gray Smith. 65
