Reconciliation, between equals

A word from FGM, September 2022

September 30 will mark the second annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, an event established last year by the government of Canada. This will be an occasion for us all to stop and think, not only about the historical ramifications of the colonization of the territory we now inhabit, but also about relations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, both current and future. There is still much to be done in order for reconciliation to go beyond just symbolism and good intentions.

At the Foundation of Greater Montréal, we are continuing to step up our contribution to reconciliation. In order to make sure we are walking the talk (see our territorial acknowledgement), we created last year the Fund to support Indigenous initiatives. The $200,000 attributed to the Fund in that first year has enabled us to assist 10 Indigenous organizations in Greater Montreal, most notably those from the Kanien’keha:ka nation, the guardian of our territory. We have identified these organizations using the principles of trust-based philanthropy. This approach involves establishing a dialogue that is carried out between equals, and allows the communities to be the ones to identify their needs, as well as the tools required to meet those needs.

Putting the focus on learning and understanding

In the spirit of the Foundation’s new Strategic Plan, and its renewed committed to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion, we have also resolved to provide the members of our team with training, so as to enhance the Foundation’s understanding of the issues historically and currently affecting Indigenous peoples. This process will not only enable us to work in a more sensitive and effective way, but will also make us better citizens and allies. You will find out more about this approach below.

Giving, sharing and solidarity are at the heart of Indigenous peoples’ age-old cultures and practices. At a time when philanthropic institutions are also being called upon to evolve and to shed colonizing practices, we should look for inspiration to the ancestral knowledge of the First Peoples. Let us not forget that individuals, communities and the environment are fundamentally interlinked. For the benefit of the next seven generations and beyond, we have a duty to take care of one another, preserve our resources and protect the integrity of our territory. The vision and mission that drive community foundations like FGM are in complete convergence with this Indigenous philosophy. That is why we are reiterating our commitment to put it into practice, on our own scale, right now, but more importantly, in the future as well.

Karel Mayrand
President and CEO
Foundation of Greater Montréal