Learning Through Connection: Day One Society’s Commitment to Truth and Reconciliation

Day One Society recently took a meaningful step towards fostering understanding and reconciliation by hosting a virtual session with Joanne Brown, a former Board member and one of Thompson Rivers University’s Indigenous Elders. This special gathering, held in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, brought staff and Board members together to share in a collective journey of learning and growth.

Joanne, a member of the Cheslatta Carrier Nation, shared her firsthand experiences and insights on the ongoing impact of colonization and the importance of Truth and Reconciliation. Born and raised in Grassy Plains, British Columbia, Joanne has devoted her life to bridging gaps through education and community work. Her heartfelt presentation left a lasting impact on everyone who participated.

“The big words of ‘Truth and Reconciliation’ sound confounding, but they are vital,”

Joanne shared. “Many people do not realize how our historical documents still reign over us. It is not as complicated as it sounds, but the impacts are far-reaching. My goal was to deconstruct our history in a way that helps people see the problems—and the potential to do better.”

She also emphasized that reconciliation is not just for Indigenous people but for all Canadians. “Day One Society helps many Indigenous people who come to walk on the red road, explaining that the red road is a metaphor for living a spiritual way of life, embodying healing, connection, and respect for oneself and others. Often, they are so hurt they do not realize part of the problem is not theirs to wear. Truth and Reconciliation is for everyone. Changing how we think and act is critical for building a better world.”

Day One Society’s leadership deeply valued Joanne’s contributions, recognizing the importance of creating space for these meaningful conversations. Siân Lewis, Executive Director of Day One Society, reflected on the motivation behind inviting Joanne to speak. “We wanted to acknowledge the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and remind ourselves of the importance of Indigenous history, culture, and tradition. Joanne’s story was deeply personal and spoke to both our hearts and minds. Her insights help us better understand the injustices of the past and present, ensuring we don’t perpetuate them.”

Siân also noted how learning about Indigenous history allows Day One Society to connect more meaningfully with the communities it serves.

“This knowledge opens the door to respectful partnerships that lead to better engagement and services. It enriches our relationships and equips us to address systemic barriers, ensuring we create trauma-informed, culturally sensitive programs that honour Indigenous ways of knowing.”

The session left an impression on the organization’s Board Chair, Marilyn McLean, who described it as a powerful opportunity for connection and learning. “Learning with Joanne was a wonderful opportunity for the Board and staff of Day One Society to come together in the spirit of truth and reconciliation,” Marilyn shared. “I would like to personally thank Joanne for her openness and kindness. It is special when you can learn about someone’s history and heritage directly from them. It allows us to grow and do better in how we show up in the world.”

Sharing this story highlights the importance of understanding Indigenous history and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation. It also demonstrates Day One Society’s commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive environments, not only within the organization but also in the wider community.

As Joanne so graciously stated,

“We can do it, all of us. We can make it a better world.”

Moments like these serve as a reminder of the transformative power of learning, connection, and empathy. For Day One Society, it reaffirms a mission of hope, help, and healing, one day at a time.