TakingITGlobal

3 Across many Indigenous communities the circle has been an important symbol to represent balance, interconnectedness and harmony. It teaches us about relationship and strength while challenging us to connect with one another and the land in order to find our place in community. While our teachings around this have carried on for thousands of years, there have been many attempts to weaken our circles since settlers first arrived on Turtle Island. Violence and discrimination throughout colonization has plagued our communities with intergenerational trauma and pain, disrupting our wellness and potential as nations. Now, as we approach the 150th anniversary of confederation in Canada it is critical that this past be known and understood not just as a key part of Indigenous history, but of history for all Canadians. So where are we now? First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples now find ourselves at an exciting and hopeful time where our circles are coming back together and we are becoming more and more strong. We are building relationships both within and across our communities, learning from one another and working together to ensure that our voices are heard. We also find ourselves ready to form new circles, in particular circles for reconciliation and understanding with non-Indigenous peoples, grounded in uncovering the truths of the past and rebuilding respect, trust and hope for the future. Introduction This Idea Book is about strengthening those circles, about celebrating the emerging network of Indigenous youth leaders who are inspiring meaningful change across the country and about challenging all Canadians to learn more and to join us in creating a better future where everyone sharing this land can thrive and grow. Through online discussions, videos, social media posts, emails, phone calls, in person interviews, and workshops, youth from 30 different communities engaged in dialogue about Canada's past, present and future and formed content into 7 different key themes. I encourage you to read their ideas carefully and to find inspiration in the passion that they share. Marsi/Thank-you to all of the young change makers, community builders, storytellers, and dream shapers who shared their ideas and hopes in this book. While our communities are still healing and continue to face many challenges, these youth are a testament to our strength, beauty and resilience. Many thanks also to our elders, knowledge keepers and ancestors who have paved the way for our leadership; if it wasn't for them our voices would have no spirit and our circles would have no foundation. With love, LIndsay duPré Métis Nation of Ontario Indigenous Youth Engagement Coordinator, TakingITGlobal

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