I am awake, I am alive, as I accept the reality of the arena I work in …

Yesterday, that reality was front and center as I was reminded that many do not have any IDEA what reconcilation looks like and once they find out, they are not sure it is something they want to be a part of and that my friends has to change.

These people often want to help, you see. They are fine with sending money to support a cause or willing to hang artwork, thinking this places them on the right side of history and that my friends is where the error occurs.

Reconciliation is Indigenous voices at every table at every level. It is not a separate initiative but rather the examination of the wording of every policy, every poster, every action, every conversation at the point of creation. And as is so often needed, it is the pointing-out of everything that crosses the line into exclusionary or discriminatory or just plain unacceptable … even if that policy or poster was designed by you or your friend.

Reconciliation is not comfortable. It is a correction process which starts with the highlighting of an error or issue. White fragility HATES being centered out, corrected, or embarrassed and in that reality is the choice – risk the embarrassment and correction of necessary change or accept that Indigenous people will continue to suffer as a result of your unwillingness to risk.

Today’s question – which side are you really on? Think about it before you answer. Indigenous lives may depend on it.

The journey continues …
 

I love you!
HUGSSSSSSSSSS
Sandi

#ibelieveinyou #ibelieveinme #icreatespace #celebrateandsurvive #repairingfeathers