In recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, CPAWSB staff participated in a Virtual KAIROS Blanket Exercise (vKBE). This powerful, interactive learning experience delves into the shared history between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. Facilitated by Andrea Louise and Corinne Paul of Metis Inspirations, the exercise invited participants to explore stories of colonization, resistance and resilience, while also acknowledging the deep intergenerational trauma caused by the residential school system.
The session began with a mind mapping activity, where staff were asked to list 8–10 areas of life that bring them value and purpose, such as family, community, education, language, or culture. As the narrative of colonization was shared, participants were asked to cross out these aspects one by one, mirroring how Indigenous peoples were systematically stripped of their lands, identities, and ways of life. This reflective exercise set a deeply personal tone, helping staff connect emotionally and empathetically with the realities shared throughout the session.
Throughout the vKBE, participants engaged with powerful accounts that illuminated the impact of residential schools—how these institutions disrupted families, erased cultural identity and language, and caused deep intergenerational trauma among survivors and their descendants. As staff listened, they were also reminded of how these lasting systems of inequality and discrimination continue to affect Indigenous Peoples, including the national tragedy of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S). The discussion underscored the importance of acknowledging this crisis as part of understanding the full scope of colonization’s impact and the urgent need for collective awareness, action, and accountability.
The experience gave way to meaningful discussions among CPAWSB staff, who shared their thoughts and reactions after the session. Many reflected on how the exercise deepened their understanding of Indigenous experiences and inspired them to consider how reconciliation can be woven into their personal and professional lives.
At CPAWSB, we recognize that reconciliation is an ongoing journey rooted in learning, reflection, and action. Engaging in experiences like the KAIROS Blanket Exercise allows our team to continue building empathy, awareness, and commitment to supporting Indigenous communities in meaningful ways.
The session began with a mind mapping activity, where staff were asked to list 8–10 areas of life that bring them value and purpose, such as family, community, education, language, or culture. As the narrative of colonization was shared, participants were asked to cross out these aspects one by one, mirroring how Indigenous peoples were systematically stripped of their lands, identities, and ways of life. This reflective exercise set a deeply personal tone, helping staff connect emotionally and empathetically with the realities shared throughout the session.
Throughout the vKBE, participants engaged with powerful accounts that illuminated the impact of residential schools—how these institutions disrupted families, erased cultural identity and language, and caused deep intergenerational trauma among survivors and their descendants. As staff listened, they were also reminded of how these lasting systems of inequality and discrimination continue to affect Indigenous Peoples, including the national tragedy of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S). The discussion underscored the importance of acknowledging this crisis as part of understanding the full scope of colonization’s impact and the urgent need for collective awareness, action, and accountability.
The experience gave way to meaningful discussions among CPAWSB staff, who shared their thoughts and reactions after the session. Many reflected on how the exercise deepened their understanding of Indigenous experiences and inspired them to consider how reconciliation can be woven into their personal and professional lives.
At CPAWSB, we recognize that reconciliation is an ongoing journey rooted in learning, reflection, and action. Engaging in experiences like the KAIROS Blanket Exercise allows our team to continue building empathy, awareness, and commitment to supporting Indigenous communities in meaningful ways.
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