Last week, because of the mass shooting in Buffalo, we offered Listening/Sharing sessions for the employees of our US clients. These are meant as safer spaces for people to share and process the impact of such a traumatic event together. Because it was a racially motivated hate crime, we created …
Blog
The Hate we Learn
“Mom, why do people treat us like that?” My daughter asked me. She was in the room when I learned about the mass shooting and wanted to know what I was reacting to. I told her, and she sat there in a daze, devastated. I put my arm around here and said, “People are taught to …
First Language …what can it mean?
Nova Scotia has moved to recognize Mi’kmaw as the province's First Language. While this is not to be confused with an “official language” it is being hailed as an important step. Language and Identity Language is an important part of our identity. In many First Nations communities, the amount …
Letting Go
I’m not religious. But last year we were living with my child's grandparents, who are. One Sunday I realized that it wasn't the denomination or type of religion that was important, but the connection to Spirit. So I started listening to the sermon with them periodically, to see what I could …
The Power of an Apology
Last week, Pope Francis apologized to Canada’s Indigenous Peoples for the role of the Catholic Church in Canada’s Residential School system. Here is the excerpt that CBC included in their article. "I also feel shame ... sorrow and shame for the role that a number of Catholics, particularly those …
Lessons from a Slap
Maybe you have seen it, maybe you have heard about The Slap at the Oscars. “Everyone” seems to be talking about it. In fact it has overshadowed many amazing aspects and "wins" of the night, sadly. So, what I want to focus on here is what we can learn from it. While I don’t condone violence of …
Luca and D&I
Last week I watched the movie Luca again with my daughter. It’s a beautiful movie, and although there was hardly any diversity, there are so many interesting elements we can apply to D&I. The main issue is humans vs. sea monsters. Sea monsters are a very visceral example of “the …
The Power of Words
If you've been following my posts for a while, you’ve surely read this is one before: words are powerful. We may use them carelessly, but the messages can stick and inform/lead to/strengthen biases, prejudices, and judgments that can ultimately undermine acceptance and inclusion. My mom is …
Feeling the End of the Year
It’s been a looooong year. I have heard from many clients how staff are feeling the impact of the lengthening pandemic, and the additional stressors on life and work. These stressors may include: Fear and worry Health concerns Navigating (online) schooling for children Creating a …
What’s in a Word?
Lately I’ve been thinking a lot about accessibility and language. It started with the word “blindspot”. I have continued to use it, despite recognizing that it’s ableist language - language that underscores that society determines ability (vs disability) as the norm and therefore as more …