On Thursday, December 3, the team at MTYP had the opportunity to gather virtually for a workshop led by Dr. Niigaan Sinclair.  In addition to his work facilitating conferences and workshops across Canada, Dr. Sinclair is the Curator of Indigenous History at the Forks, a Professor of Native Studies at the University of Manitoba and writes a weekly column for the Winnipeg Free Press. All who attended are grateful to Dr. Sinclair for his generosity with his insights and strategies.

During the afternoon session, Dr. Sinclair shared teachings with the team about the Indigenous history of the place where we are privileged to have our theatre, here on Treaty 1 territory, the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, and in the homeland of the Métis Nation.  The workshop also included information about the history of treaties and the realities of the Indigenous experience in Canada along with other pertinent knowledge and historical context towards recognizing the impacts of colonization on all Canadians.  Resources and guidance for additional learnings beyond the workshop were also shared with the team.

These initial, and important conversations will help inform MTYP as we continue to work to promote and adopt the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s final report towards the creation of healthy workplaces based in principles of reconciliation.  MTYP has been engaging in this important work for some time. In fact, our theatre was one of the venues for the national launch of the TRC in Winnipeg in June 2010.   We recognize we have more to do and that it is important that we all continue to grow our knowledge and understanding and always strive to do better.  As we continue on our path of working to ensure that MTYP is an inclusive and welcoming place to all, the relationship started with Dr. Sinclair during this workshop, and the knowledge he has graciously shared with us, will support and guide us.

Our sincere thanks to Dr. Sinclair for his kindness and for giving of his time and energy so generously and we look forward to future opportunities to continue our relationship with him.

Miigwech.