Decolonizing Settlement

Decolonization often encounters resistance, fear, or even hostility. However, it is essential to recognize that decolonization is a journey, not a destination. It invites us all to participate in something positive and transformative, fostering heart-to-heart and progressive conversations.

This workshop will explore how we can reimagine the settlement sector through a decolonizing lens. We will discuss fostering a culture of continuous learning and reflection to understand and dismantle colonial practices and biases. Additionally, we will highlight the importance of promoting a cross-cultural and multi-sectoral approach.

Through engaging dialogue, we will address tough questions, explore alternative approaches, and provoke meaningful debate among settlement practitioners, leaders in the field, and the public. An equitable and just future depends on the courage and actions we take today. Let us embark on this journey together.

Objectives:

1. To build strong partnerships between Indigenous organizations and SPOs, and other community-based organizations.

2. To educate the broader community about the impacts of colonialism and the importance of decolonizing settlement services.

3. To foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement within SPO.

4. To establish mechanisms for monitoring progress and evaluating the impact of decolonizing initiatives.

5. To identify and advocate for the removal of systemic barriers that hinder the settlement and integration of newcomers.

Who should attend? This workshop is intended for any frontline staff, middle management or directors of newcomer serving organizations, as well as anyone who wishes to gain a better understanding of what decolonizing the settlement sector looks like.

Facilitator: Nina Condo, owner of Nina Condo Consulting

Nina Condo has been involved in community development in Winnipeg for more than 15 years. During that time, she worked in non-profit leadership roles, the front lines, as well in advisory roles with local and national organizations.  Nina holds a Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Manitoba. She has been involved in teaching counselling at Red River College. Most recently, Nina has channeled her passion for social justice and equity into her own consulting initiative, which specializes in training development for business, government agencies, and not for profit organizations.