Lecture Notes: Harvey McLeod on Reconciliation

Introduction

• Speaker: Harvey McLeod, El Mekum Chief, Upper Nickel Band Okanagan Nation
• Acknowledgement of traditional territories
• Emphasis on the overwhelming energy and need for understanding and listening

Reconciliation

• Commonly discussed by political leaders (Prime Minister of Canada, BC Premier, ministers)
• Misunderstandings and differing perspectives on reconciliation
• Personal journey to understanding reconciliation
  • 1966 contract with God and its impact
  • Reflection on life events and the realization of reaching beyond initial life goals

Personal Story of Reconciliation

• Importance of finding people and places to trust
• Turning point in life: August 19, 2001
• Challenges faced: marriages, divorces, and relationship with children
• Reconciliation with family
  • Watching "We Are Children" with daughters
  • Apologizing to former partners and family discussions
• Reconciliation must start within oneself

Community Reconciliation Plan

• Core message: Empowering people and healing
• Two promises:
  1. Strengthen the community for a flourishing future
  2. Reconnect with culture, stories, and teachings (e.g., the four food chiefs)

Message to Political Leaders

• Reconciliation is not about funding
• Need for supports to be able to undertake community work
• Importance of community leaders and shared values

Legacy and Future Generations

• Optimism for future generations (grandchildren)
• Dream for a better life for the next generation, moving away from the legacy of residential schools

Definition and Reflection on Reconciliation

• Reconciliation involves everyone
• Adapting to new perspectives and opening minds and hearts
• Reconciliation as a starting point for broader positive change

Conclusion

• Gratitude for audience listening
• Encouragement for collective reconciliation effort