Wîcihitowin ‘Working Together’ to Build Relationships
Almost 500 Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal experts, leaders, youth and Elders will “learn from one another to build community” and commit to moving forward on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action at the second annual Wîcihitowin (wee-CHEE-toh-win) Aboriginal Engagement Conference.
“In our second year, we’re focusing on learning and resources for non-Aboriginal organizations to improve engagement and inclusion of Aboriginal peoples, whether it be as an employee, volunteer or in a board role,” says Gilles Dorval, Director of Aboriginal Relations for the City of Saskatoon.
Wîcihitowin is Cree/Saulteaux for “helping each other” or “working together”, which is an important component of delivering enhanced programs and services. This conference is presented in partnership with the City of Saskatoon, the United Way of Saskatoon, Saskatoon Health Region, and Aboriginal Friendship Centres of Saskatchewan.
“When done well, Aboriginal engagement can improve outcomes for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal community members, strengthening both the organization and our community by incorporating the voice of the Aboriginal community in programming and service delivery,” says Warren Isbister-Bear, Director of Aboriginal Relations for United Way of Saskatoon.
This year’s conference will address themes outlined in the Truth & Reconciliation Commission of Canada Calls to Action, such as: education, language & culture, health, media, newcomers to Canada and sports & reconciliation.
“These sessions offer organizations opportunities to learn more about what reconciliation might look like in a safe environment. Each organization might have a slightly different response to the calls to action and we’re learning from one another how to move forward,” says Neal Kewistep, Manager, Our Neighbourhood Health Centre & Building Health Equity for the Saskatoon Health Region.
The conference aims to support organizations working to incorporate Aboriginal values within program and service delivery settings with the goal of creating culturally respectful organizations.
“We have an opportunity through this conference to assist local organizations, be it human service, government of private industry, to address the real and perceived barriers in preventing Aboriginal people from participating fully in the economy,” said Brad Bird, Aboriginal Cultural Coordinator, Aboriginal Friendship Centres of Saskatchewan.
Keynote speakers include Dr. Marie Wilson, Former Commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, and Chief Darcy Bear, seven-term leader of Whitecap Dakota First Nation. Full agenda for the Wîcihitowin Aboriginal Engagement Conference available here.
Wîcihitowin supports the City’s Strategic Goal of “Quality of Life” by identifying actions for enhancing Aboriginal well-being and participation in our community.