Mapping the Ground We Stand On

“Mapping The Ground We Stand On” invites participants to explore Indigenous presence on the map of Turtle Island, the history of settler arrival, and how each fit into the ongoing narratives. In addition, the concepts of the Doctrine of Discovery, terra nullius, Indigenous Knowledge and Ways of Knowing will also be explored.

This learning process would not be possible without the presence of Indigenous Knowledge Holder, Rev. Lee Claus, for which we are very grateful. Lee is a retired minister in the United Church of Canada and a Mohawk First Nations person from the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory.

The process includes the use of PowerPoint animation, videos, small group discussion and a very large map! The hope is that through active listening, understanding and reflection each participant will begin to formulate their next steps to meaningful action towards reconciliation. Everyone will be encouraged to think about how their personal and collective journeys’ will foster just, respectful and healing relationships for all peoples – Indigenous and settler.

This workshop was first developed by The Primate’s World Relief and Development Fund (PWRDF), Anglican Church of Canada, in 2015, as part of its commitment to support the findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Cheryl Marek (Anglican Diocese of Toronto) will facilitate the process at Richmond Hill United Church. Cheryl has been involved with Pimatisiwin Nipi (Bih-ma’-dih-zih-win Ni-bi), which means Living Waters, and the Toronto Pikangikum Work Group since 2013. In June 2019, she trained to facilitate the PWRDF interactive workshop: Mapping the Ground We Stand On.

ACCESSIBILITY: this event is accessible via stairs.