Cultural Competency Training

Cultural Competency Training accompanies the Blanket Exercise by providing deeper insights into Indigenous cultures, traditions, and languages.

Night sky filled with numerous stars. A tall teepee with wooden poles stands in the foreground.

Overview

The Blanket Exercise is an interactive learning experience designed to promote understanding of Indigenous history and foster cultural competency. It provides participants with an opportunity to engage with the historical experiences of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. The exercise uses blankets to represent land and creates a visual and physical representation of the impacts of colonization.

Close-up of a dreamcatcher with colorful feathers and beads, with sunlight shining through in the background.

This training aims to:

  • Develop Skills: Equip participants with the skills necessary to interact respectfully and effectively with Indigenous Peoples.

  • Recognize Bias: Help individuals identify and address personal biases that may hinder understanding and collaboration.

  • Promote Inclusive Practices: Encourage the development of policies and practices that promote equity and inclusion within organizations.

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Goals

1.     Promote Understanding: Raise awareness about Indigenous histories, cultures, and the effects of colonization.

2.     Encourage Empathy: Participants experience a narrative that fosters emotional connections to historical events and injustices.

3.     Support Reconciliation: Equip participants with knowledge and tools to contribute positively to reconciliation efforts in their communities.

A hand holding a stack of folded white clothing with small white fabric pumpkins on top against a plain background.

Structure of the Exercise

  • Preparation: Participants arrange blankets in a large circle, symbolizing the land before contact.

  • Narrative Journey: A facilitator guides participants through a scripted narrative, which includes key historical events, such as treaties, residential schools, and ongoing struggles.

  • Reflection: After the exercise, participants reflect on their feelings and insights, discussing the importance of understanding Indigenous perspectives.

Conclusion

Participating in the Blanket Exercise and cultural competency training is a vital step towards building meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities. This immersive experience not only educates but also empowers individuals and organizations to engage in meaningful reconciliation efforts and promote a more inclusive society. Embracing this learning journey can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of Canada’s diverse cultural landscape.

To book a Cultural Competency Training, please send an email to CULTUREED@MYMNFC.COM

Photo of a woman holding a magazine at a beige-colored table during Indigenous Awareness Week at CFB Halifax, with other attendees and military personnel in the background.
Two women, one with glasses and fishnet earrings, sitting and looking down, the other standing holding a notepad, in an art gallery or community center with artwork on the walls.
Screenshot of a webpage titled "Blanket Exercise and Cultural Competency Training at the Mi'kmaw Native Friendship Centre (French)," with a video thumbnail showing Debbie Eisan, a community events planner and resident elder, seated in a chair. The webpage includes a map of North America and navigation links at the top.
Screenshot of a webpage titled 'Blanket Exercise and Cultural Competency Training - Mi'kmaw Native Friendship Centre - Denise John - Victim Support Navigator - Halifax, Nova Scotia'. The webpage features a video of Denise John sitting on a beige couch, wearing a maroon shirt, with a text overlay with her name and title. The page also has links to various resources, a map, and contact details for the Mi'kmaw Native Friendship Centre.