Strategic Group Principles

The following principles were created using the Mi’kmaw teaching of Etuaptmumk, “Two-eyed Seeing”, introduced by Elder Albert Marshall of Eskasoni First Nation, in the district of Una’ma’ki. This teaching asks us to take the strengths of both a colonized world and an Indigenous world, and, through both lenses, build greater capacity and success for all. These principles integrate Euro-Canadian practice with the Seven Sacred Teachings of the Mi’kmaq through a process of co-learning and an exchange of stories.

LOVE & OPENNESS

Through the teaching of love, we approach our tasks with an open heart and steep our work in love so that we always remain welcoming and inclusive.

COURAGE & BRAVERY

Through the teaching of courage, we unleash the tenacity we carry inside to overcome fears that prevent us from advancing in our worwwk by acknowledging our discomfort and facing it with bravery and integrity, together.

RESPECT & HARMONY

Through the teaching of respect, we acknowledge the existence of multiple truths and give equal consideration to all perspectives. We accept differences and do not judge or dismiss but work together to establish a mutual understanding that will sustain a harmonious environment for all to thrive.

HUMILITY & RECIPROCITY

Through the teaching of humility, we recognize that we are a part of something greater than our individual needs. We honour our interconnectedness – Msit no’kmaq, “all my relations,” by exploring beyond words, to the essence of ourselves and our existence on this earth. We appreciate our inter-dependence by supporting working relationships that are both reciprocal and steadfast.

WISDOM & REFLECTION

Through the teaching of wisdom, we utilize our individual gifts in ways that promote wellness and equity. We realize that our work is dynamic and always changing and we intentionally create space to reflect on the past and present to prepare for the path ahead.

TRUTH & TRANSPARENCY

Through the teaching of truth, we adhere to these principles and are purposeful in our work and intentional in our actions. We are aware of our personal truths and recognize the multiple lenses that influence how we see and act in the world so that we remain accountable and transparent in everything we do.

HONESTY, LEARNING & UNLEARNING

Through the teaching of honesty, we remain true to ourselves, our community, and each other by always speaking from the heart. We create a safe space to learn, grow, and develop alongside each other and lead with curiosity, questioning what is, and why things are the way they are to surface our shared history.