Circle Connections for Reconciliation Society is a nonprofit organization that works towards bringing Indigenous and non-Indigenous people together in peace and friendship, to build relationships, learn the truth, increase awareness and work towards genuine reconciliation in Airdrie and area. We are honoured to work with Elders, Knowledge Keepers and Leaders from across Treaty 7 Territory and the Métis Nation of Alberta.
We come together to engage in meaningful conversations, to work together organizing events and activities as well as initiating changes that ensure a safe, supportive and inclusive community. We welcome all people to join us in this journey.
Two of the most important steps we can take towards reconciliation is learning the truth and building genuine relationships. Working together, we plan community gatherings and culture sharing activities as well as educational opportunities.
We have hosted events in Airdrie over the past 5 years such as National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, National Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30th as well as a series of Elder Talks.
Our Elder led workshop called Trusting the Truth of Turtle Island was recently launched and provides the opportunity for introspection and learning 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 and are something we would like to market and promote.
Even after all these years and numerous events, there are still people in Airdrie who do not know we exist. Part of the challenge is that all our marketing funds come from grants and other fundings. The majority of funds rightfully go to Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Indigenous cultural performers and drummers, and Indigenous caterers leaving little for marketing. We realize that it is important to promote all of these initiatives and very much need to get the word out in a more effective way.
An entire year of media support? That would help us bring so much more awareness to the community of Airdrie with respect to events, workshops and other cultural activities. It would help to share our message of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people coming together in peace and friendship including volunteer opportunities.
Thank you kindly for this opportunity. We would be incredibly grateful for the assistance in marketing and advertising to continue this important work in our area.