Reconciliation
The Sistema Canada Network acknowledges the historic and ongoing colonial violence across Turtle Island. We support the 94 Calls to Action by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and commit to furthering reconciliation efforts in our own work and the work of our Member Programs.
Our Commitment to Reconciliation
We acknowledge that education and music have been used as tools of systemic oppression and commit to promoting practices that support decolonization and healing. As our commitment to reconciliation, we pledge to take the following actions and to revisit them annually.
In 2025 we commit to:
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COMPLETE
The Reconciliation Working Group continued their work beginning in September 2024
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In Progress
A synchronous version of Tapestry
Resource(s) to include in the Resource Library
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In Progress
Follow up sessions with Linda
Experiences for Alexander First Nation (AB) and Elsipogtog (NB)
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In Progress
A similar application was released this year, this time a Rolling Application for projects up to $500. Larger proposals were considered in the Spring based on remaining allocation.
Next steps: clarify funding application, highlight past recipients, publicly (website, social media, newsletter)
In 2023/2024 we committed to:
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COMPLETE
In March 2024, a Reconciliation Working Group was created consisting of 5 members from various SCN Member Programs. The purpose of the Working Group is to identify and implement the commitments outlined in the Network’s Commitment to Reconciliation. The members are:
Jeffrey Acosta (Sistema Winnipeg)
Yessica Rivera Belsham (Sistema Kingston)
Lauren Dykstra (YONA-Sistema)
Kelsy Vivash (Sistema Toronto)
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Rethought: It was determined that ‘Teaching Materials’ are not the most relevant/appropriate resource for the Network to develop. Moving forward, the Network will work towards curating resources rooted in Indigenous experiences and perspectives.
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COMPLETE
Tapestry of Turtle Island, September 10th 2024
A 90-minute virtual workshop designed for both Teaching Artists and administrators. Tapestry of Turtle Island explores the history of Turtle Island with a focus on the resiliency and music of First Nations Peoples. We are grateful to Yessica Rivera Belsham (Sistema Kingston) and Lynda Gerow for their work in curating this session.
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COMPLETE
A total of $5,000CAD was available for Member Programs to apply for through an application process. Applications were reviewed by the Reconciliation Working Group based on various criteria.
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COMPLETE
Accessible through our Resource Library, a folder was created with curated resources rooted in Indigenous experiences and perspectives for both Teaching Artist and Administrators use.
