Reconciliation is trending. Many of us in the non-profit world are looking to activate our role in moving our collective forward in a respectful and just direction. Despite the resounding interest to learn, acknowledge, and understand more about truth and reconciliation, taking that first step is daunting.

Organizations are not out picketing; physically defending land, or lobbying for policy change. For many this is not your space. Yet, reconciliation is an actioning word that calls us all to engage as collective, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Perhaps, in our charitable, philanthropic, sector more than others, there is a yearning to promote reconciliation. We are an industry focused on achieving public good.

Here is the question - How can we take the first step despite the hesitancy and risk? The answer is simple - listen and learn through online participation.

The Internet has completely changed the way people communicate. It is now a legitimate place to do something meaningful. Discussing Indigenous realities and reconciliation online is a valid form of communication through which we can learn to be better allies.

Every social justice movement needs dialogue. A vital step to reconciliation is learning and talking about our honest history despite the gritty discomfort that may arise. Although we are willing to have these conversations, not everyone is able to discuss these truths in person with Indigenous peoples. The Internet has become a place for many to find this support. We now have access to people, organizations, and communities. This network is rich with information to support and guide us.

Rebecca Darwent, Community & Knowledge Catalyst, The Counselling Foundation of Canada notes “Working with Indigenous leaders on co-created and co-facilitated virtual engagement has allowed me to participate actively in reconciliation. The basis of this work, for me, has been developing trust. Collaborative projects provide an excellent platform to communicate and build relationships in new and deeper ways.”

Rebecca, and many other Foundation leaders, are members of The Communications Affinity Group. This groups is made up of communications staff at different philanthropic foundations across Canada. The Communications Affinity group saw this opportunity to leverage networks and engage as a collective in reconciliation. The group was formed to exchange knowledge, resources and ideas to improve the work of our organizations and the communities we serve. The group comes together to work as a collective voice around priorities of shared interest and importance.

To kick of 2017, we launched and participated in a two-week campaign, #ReconciliationInAction. We engaged with our internal and external networks to learn, acknowledge and discover the many opportunities out there for philanthropy to maintain an active role in reconciliation.

"The online campaign acted as a springboard for our network of philanthropic organizations to come together and share stories and examples of Reconciliation in action, says David Venn, Director of Communications, Community Foundations of Canada. He adds “By leveraging our online communities, we could shine a spotlight on why Reconciliation matters, and invite others to act on the recommendations outlined by The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada."

Caitlin Blacklaws, Governance & Communications Coordinator, The Lawson Foundation sums up the benefits on gaining knowledge online. She comments "Virtual Engagement is a successful tool because it allowed organizations from across the sectors to ultimately come together and speak with one voice. When we do that we have a much stronger potential for instigating change. Reconciliation cannot be achieved alone. Reconciliation is a journey where we all need to work and learn together. Virtual engagement can be used as an engagement tool in this journey."

In part two of this series, Shereen will outline concrete steps you can take on your own path to reconciliation.

Shereen Munshi is Communications Coordinator, The Circle on Philanthropy and Aboriginal Peoples in Canada. Follow @TheCircleCanada online to continue learning and find out ways you and your organization can join us in putting #ReconciliationInAction