New UCalgary initiative encourages relational action and self-reflection

Since the 2017 launch of ii’ taa’poh’to’p, the University of Calgary’s Indigenous Strategy, the concept of “being a good relative” has become an integral part of transforming the university’s culture. But what does it mean to be a good relative?

A new initiative; Towards Being a Good Relative: A Parallel Vision of Indigenous Allyship, hosted by the Office of Indigenous Engagement, aims to provide an avenue for participants to build connection and self-discovery. It is a continuation of the Anti-Indigenous Racism Workshop Series, a prerequisite for the learning initiative, which was created through consultation with Elders and the community.

What can learners expect? 

By using the concept of “all my relations,” participants in this two-hour, in-person initiative will consider collective well-being, continuous learning and active participation in relationships. The initiative focuses on “being,” an active and dynamic state that includes deep self-reflection that is integral to understanding oneself holistically. 

Participants will begin a journey to better understand what it means to be a good relative. They will delve into concepts rooted in Indigenous ways of doing and being, which emphasize:

• learning from the land
• community collaboration
• building strong, reciprocal relationships 

Participants will challenge colonial understandings such as ownership and individualism. The initiative encourages an environment where participants can turn deep self-reflection into actionable change that aligns our parallel paths.

“Understanding and embracing relational practices is crucial for fostering a sense of community and interconnectedness. These practices help us build strong, supportive relationships that are essential for personal and collective well-being. Repetitive processes keep us grounded and connected, helping us honour our interrelatedness,” says Dr. Michael Hart, PhD, vice-provost, Indigenous Engagement. 

Connecting to Indigenous concept of "all my relations"

The concept of relatives does not rely on colonial definitions, but connects to the shared Indigenous concept of  “all my relations,” which emphasizes respect and interconnectedness among all beings, including animals, plants, water and the cosmos. Connecting to the Blackfoot concept of aisspommootsiiyio’pa, meaning "helping one another," which is a principle of mutual support and interdependence, these concepts lay the foundation for reciprocity and respect and are integral to the initiative.

This initiative offers a deeper look into relational practices by exploring what it means to be a good relative. By encouraging mutual respect, understanding and co-operation among diverse cultures, the learning experience helps honour Indigenous ways of being, knowing and doing, emphasizing the importance of collective action, interconnectedness and walking parallel paths. 

“Through our relation to one another, we support each other by adapting, learning, and listening. We use self-reflection, empathy, compassion, and understanding to guide us toward becoming a good relative,” says Hart.

To read more about this learning initiative, visit the webpage.