Truth + Reconciliation Panel Conversations
Kwumut Lelum Foundation presents Truth + Reconciliation Panel Conversations, a virtual event that brings together leaders, activists and agitators who care deeply about Indigenous-led foundations and their powerful positive impact on communities.
We invite you and your organization to learn more about:
The traditional Indigenous practice of gift giving and what it means for you and your organization.
The vital role of Indigenous-led foundations as community investment partners.
Connecting from a heart-centered place.
Sharon Hobenshield, Executive Director of Kw’umut Lelum Foundation, BC’s first Indigenous-led and founded community foundation, hosts the event. Esteemed panelists include:
Ralph Nilson, President Emeritus, Vancouver Island University | 2021 Appointee to the Order of Canada
Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond, Lawyer/Judge/Children’s Rights Advocate/Officer to the Order of Canada
Pamela Anderson, Actress/Activist/Philanthropist
William Yoachim, Executive Director Kw’umut Lelum Child & Family Services/Recipient of the 2022 B.C. Achievement Community Award
Louise Mandell, Lawyer/Advocate of Indigenous Rights/Founder of Mandell Pinder Law Firm
John Elliott, Former Chief Stz’uminus First Nation/Chair of Kw’umut Lelum Foundation
Brent Edwards, Snaw-Naw-As Council Member
There are three events with three separate topics and each with a unique set of panelists. There will be 30 minutes of conversation, followed by a 30-minute Q+A, where attendees are given space to ask questions and go deeper. Reserve your tickets here.
Topic 1: Uy’ya’tulct ci’cuwatulct (Walking Hand in Hand in a Good Way)
September 13, 2022 | 10:00 am - 11:00 am (PST)
Participants will be invited to consider the traditional practice of gift giving from their perspective and consider how this philosophy of giving can be activated in their relationships with Indigenous People.
This session will explore:
How to avoid a paternalistic relationship and instead grow a relationship based on traditional Indigenous gifting economies.
How we give and receive to demonstrate respect and ensure the balance and harmony of our mutual existence.
How reciprocity is integral to ancient laws that teach us to share wealth among our communities.
Panelists:
William Yoachim, Executive Director Kw’umut Lelum Child & Family Services/Recipient of the 2022 B.C. Achievement Community Award
Ralph Nilson, President Emeritus, Vancouver Island University/2021 Appointee to the Order of Canada
Pamela Anderson, Actress/Activist/Philanthropist
Topic 2: Stitumstuxw tun shqwuluwun (Self-Determination)
October 11, 2022 | 10:00 am - 11:00 am (PST)
Participants will hear from members of the Kw’umut Lelum Board of Directors regarding how they envision the Foundation supporting the work of Sovereignty and how allies can contribute.
This session will explore:
Insight into an Indigenous world view and how it influences working relationships between Indigenous organizations and non-Indigenous organizations.
How First Nation owned and governed foundations ensure First Nation control of mission, vision, values and community-generated ideas.
How the work we do and the support we receive, as a Foundation, ladders up to the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action.
Panelists:
Louise Mandell, Lawyer/Advocate of Indigenous Rights/Founder of Mandell Pinder Law Firm
John Elliott, Former Chief Stz’uminus First Nation/Chair of Kw’umut Lelum Foundation
Topic 3: Xwunuts’amaat uw’ muqwstem (Inter-Connectedness)
November 8, 2022 | 10:00 am - 11:00 am (PST)
Participants of this session will develop an increased understanding of the role of Indigenous-led philanthropy and the work that is necessary to foster the social and economic prosperity for Indigenous people to ensure children and youth thrive.
This session will explore:
How to build mutually rewarding relationships with Indigenous-led organizations.
How to create opportunities to connect with Foundations from a heart-centered place.
How Indigenous-led philanthropy is a collective endeavor, uniting people through relationships and shared values, working towards a shared vision for the future.
How to advance a shared responsibility to address systemic inequalities.
Panelists:
Brent Edwards, Snaw-Naw-As Council Member
Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond, Lawyer/Judge/Children’s Rights Advocate/Officer to the Order of Canada