TRUSTING THE TRUTH OF TURTLE ISLAND
At the Circle Connections for Reconciliation Society, we believe an understanding the truth of Turtle Island (North America) is key to advancing Truth and Reconciliation. To that end, we have launched a workshop that is culturally appropriate, informed and respectful.
Working with Elder Lance Scout, Kainai Nation, and Project Manager Bree Clark, Cree/Irish, the workshops are a deep cultural experience in Indigenous worldviews including the medicine wheel and natural laws (spiritual, natural, cultural and contrary laws) and includes interactive exercises for individual and groups reflection. Initially two pilot workshops were held in order to gather feedback and guidance from Elders, Knowledge Keepers, board members and invited guests.
We launched our workshop to the public for the first time in September 2025 for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
We continue to seek funding in order to expand the workshops and continue to offer them to the general public on a regular basis.
The workshops provide the opportunity for introspection and learnings in personal growth and healing emphasizing the role of cultural wisdom and self-reflection while working towards progressing Truth and Reconciliation and anti-racism initiatives.
Bringing Indigenous and non-Indigenous people together, the workshops are a transformational learning journey.
Please contact us for more information on hosting the Trusting the Truth of Turtle Island workshop through your organization.
CUSTOM ARTWORK
"I had the honour of creating this artwork for Circle Connections for Reconciliation’s Truth and Reconciliation event. The turtle illustration carries deep meaning, representing Turtle Island and the teachings of the Medicine Wheel, which are central to the event’s message.
The turtle design itself will also be used on their website and may appear in future events and promotions. The poster grew out of this imagery, weaving together themes of land, community, and storytelling. I’m so grateful to have contributed to such an important gathering. 💛🧡
(Please note: this artwork is exclusively licensed to Circle Connections for Reconciliation and is not permitted for use by others.)"
Phoebe Riel, Illustrator (phoeberiel.com)
TESTIMONIALS
This workshop was truly profound. I think if more people in Airdrie and beyond had the opportunity to hear the teachings offered by Lance and Bree in such a safe, welcoming, and genuine environment, there would be immense healing to come out of it for so many. The workshop offered so much learning, and so much reflection in an honest, intentional, and caring way. I highly recommend anyone who has a loving curious spirit take this workshop, and participate in something that brings hope to all. ~ Ash S
I really enjoyed the interactive activities of the day. It was great to hear other people's opinions and ideas. Lance and Bree did a phenomenal job in presenting the material. I learned so much about the depth of the Medicine Wheel. I really had no idea about a lot of its meaning. The entire day was incredibly worthwhile. I would recommend this workshop to everyone. It was well organized, efficiently run and very engaging. Thank you!! ~ Tracey C
Attending this workshop was both humbling and transformative. I was reminded that social justice is not a final destination but a continuous journey of unlearning, relearning, and evolving. Walking alongside Indigenous teachings, particularly the medicine wheel, gives me both tools and responsibilities to do so. I carry forward a call to action, to step into discomfort, to seek truth, and to build a community rooted in respect and empathy. ~ Anonymous
For me, it was how quickly and effortlessly it took to create an environment of safety! For amongst 21 strangers, who’d never met, some who had no idea about any of what we were learning and many who had never considered the pointed, honest questions which started our day-long journey. I credit Project Manager Bree Clark, and Elder Lance Scout for their respect for and sensitivity to, all of us! I appreciated every aspect of Lance’s faith in all of his examples, using all of his tools to teach us that Where We Go From Here…is Reconciliation. Thank you for this opportunity…my heart is humbled, my spirit enriched and my mind transformed!~ Jody S
I liked many things about the workshop. It was deeply meaningful to practice honesty and vulnerability in a safe feeling environment, where each person had a chance to share their thoughts with the room but also when working within a table tribe. Having the gift of participation in the ceremonies was impactful, as well as learning the ways of knowing that are connected to some Indigenous cultures. The thing I thought about throughout the workshop was that Elder Lance mentioned 'whatever you put into this you will get out of it' which made me motivated to spiritually, emotionally, mentally and physically participate, to the best of my ability. The activities were meaningful especially because the hosts explained the significance of each activity; the day felt cohesive and unified. The day flew by because of the enjoyable style of learning and participation. ~ Charis T
I enjoyed every aspect of the workshop. I was a bit surprised by the amount of vulnerability and emotion presented at the workshop, which I was appreciative of. This was the first workshop like this I have attended, but I thought it was perfect. I'm looking forward to attending more. The activities were great, as were the timing and pace. Overall phenomenal workshop. ~ Blake B
It was a safe space to truly reflect and share honest thoughts on the reconciliation journey. Well paced, very fun, very insightful. Thank you for having me. ~ Simi O
We are grateful to our funders:
