RECONCILIATION: MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER - UNDERSTANDING RECONCILIATION
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collaboration might look like in the context of their work. 60 Board members commented that they want to continue to have regular discussions regarding reconciliation and have Indigenous speakers help to build their understanding. These discussions could focus on how concepts of reconciliation can be implemented within BC Housing’s work and the work of the Board. “It’s something that we do every day. It’s ongoing relationship building, communication, and collaboration. I don’t think it’s something that can be book- marked. Once we have this Strategy, our work isn’t complete. – BC Housing Board Member Several Board members also commented on accountability and that reconciliation is about individuals and organizations implementing the principles of UNDRIP and TRC’s Calls to Action in their daily work practices. In addition, a couple of members mentioned the concept of self- determination and suggested that reconciliation is about creating space for Indigenous peoples to lead decision-making processes and manage their own housing. 4.3.3.2 How BC Housing Currently Operationalizes Reconciliation We heard that BC Housing currently supports reconciliation through relationships and partnerships
Why This Is Important TRC’s Calls to Action suggest that corporate businesses and organizations need to focus on building respectful relationships with Indigenous peoples and respect the duty to consult on decisions that impact them (TRC). What we heard from Board members confirms that BC Housing is at the very least intentional about wanting to build relationships with Indigenous peoples.
with Indigenous Nations, communities, and organizations, funding for Indigenous housing projects, and training for its staff in cultural sensitivity. Board members shared that BC Housing has several strong and longstanding relationships with Indigenous housing providers and organizations. They suggested that BC Housing supports reconciliation through its ongoing relationship with AHMA. The Board also mentioned that BC Housing is supporting these relationships through listening, capacity-building, and involving Indigenous operators in the management of Indigenous housing projects.
“I have seen BC Housing’s role with respect to housing in Indigenous communities expand since 2019 through BC Housing’s ongoing relationship with the Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA), which is one of the largest Indigenous-managed Indigenous housing organizations in Canada and perhaps the world – BC Housing Board Member
60 To address this gap in understanding, TWC recommends that the Board set aside some time during one of their upcoming meetings to reflect, discuss, and identify specific ways to improve their collaboration, communication and partnerships with BC Housing’s Indigenous partners.
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