GRANDMOTHER'S VOICE PRESENTS
Truth with Reconciliation
Respect, Restore, Relearn
A Healing Framework
February 25th & 26th, 2025
The Meeting House, Oakville
Understand the PAST
Act in the PRESENT
Build the FUTURE
JOIN US - All Are Welcome
Join us for a groundbreaking two-day conference encouraging all Canadians to participate in reconciliation and healing actively. This event is not just for corporations and organizations but everyone who calls Canada home.
Ticket Price: $749
Early Bird Price: $649
Ticket Inquires
Special rates apply for Indigenous community members, students, not-for-profits, charities, and groups. Complete the form below and we will reply to you.
If your organization requires an invoice, please email grandmothersvoice@gmail.com
About The Conference
At the heart of Truth with Reconciliation: Respect, Restore, Relearn (A Healing Framework) is the vision of our Ancestors, carried forward through the wisdom of our Elders. Elders are deeply connected to this Knowledge, guided by the teachings and foresight of those who came before them. This Ancient wisdom is a collective inheritance, entrusted to us by Ancestors who foresaw the changes and challenges of today. They left us teachings for a good life and a harmonious world, offering guidance for the journey of relearning and restoration.
Honoring this Ancestral vision is central to the conference, grounding every session and theme in the enduring principles that have sustained Indigenous Peoples for generations. Together, we seek to respect the voices of our Elders, restore Ancestral Knowledge, and relearn the pathways to equity, reconciliation, and collective healing.
Hotel recommendation:
Hilton Garden Inn Toronto/Oakville, 2774 S Sheridan Way, Oakville, ON L6J 7T4
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mississauga-Toronto Southwest, an IHG Hotel 2125 N Sheridan Way, Mississauga, ON L5K 1A3
Fairfield Inn Toronto Oakville 2937 Sherwood Heights Dr, Oakville, ON L6J 7L3
All attendees of both days will be emailed a certificate of completion.
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS
The Truth with Reconciliation: Respect, Restore, Relearn (A Healing Framework) conference brings together influential voices and Knowledge keepers who embody the guiding principles of respect, restoration, and relearning. The Grandmothers and our speakers will share their wisdom, lived experiences, and transformative insights to inspire actionable change. Each voice contributes uniquely to fostering deeper understanding and commitment to the ongoing journey of reconciliation.
Renee Thomas-Hill
Cayuga Bear of the Grand River Territory is widely known and respected for her deep Knowledge and teachings, embodying the principles of Haudenosaunee life. Her wisdom fosters a deeper understanding of Ancestral values, offering guidance toward balance and harmony.
Gail Whitlow
Mohawk Elder and matriarch of the Turtle Clan, is the founder of the Sacred Roots Indigenous Healing Centre. Her work focuses on honoring Indigenous traditions, healing practices, and Ancestral connections, creating transformative spaces for reconciliation and personal growth.
Samantha Doxtator
Oneida, Wolf Clan, is a personal development consultant dedicated to teaching life and employability skills grounded in traditional Haudenosaunee values. A lifelong learner and researcher, Samantha shares her nurturing gifts with everyone she encounters, embodying the principle of respect through her deep connections to community and family.
Asha Frost
Asha Frost, an Anishinaabe Medicine Woman and member of the Chippewas of Nawash First Nation, is a visionary healer, teacher, and mentor committed to guiding individuals on their journeys toward self-discovery and relearning. As the author of You Are the Medicine, Asha shares sacred teachings and stories rooted in Ancestral Knowledge, offering readers and audiences practical tools for living in alignment with their true selves.
Mishoomis Allen Sutherland
Waabishki Mazinazoot Michtaatim (White Spotted Horse) of Ginew Healing Lodge, Mishoomis Allen Sutherland, is an Anishinaabe from Skownan First Nation in Treaty 2 Territory and a member of the Bizhiw doodem (Lynx Clan). With over 30 years of experience spanning Indigenous, federal, and provincial government roles, as well as grassroots community work, Allen is a renowned Anishinaabek historian, Traditional Knowledge keeper, Healer, Keeper of Ginew Healing Lodge.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Respect
Listening actively and authentically to Indigenous stories and teachings.
Restore
Revitalizing the role of Ancestral Knowledge in building stronger, more equitable communities and organizations.
Relearn
Encouraging all participants to embrace a journey of relearning—challenging assumptions, deepening understanding, and integrating Indigenous perspectives into their personal and professional lives.
These principles will shape the conference discussions, break-out sessions, and workshops, ensuring participants leave with actionable insights and a deeper understanding of their role in reconciliation.
CALL TO ACTION
This is not just a conference; it’s a movement. Truth with Reconciliation: Respect, Restore, Relearn (A Healing Framework) invites you to step into a transformative experience that will challenge, inspire, and guide you on a journey of relearning. Guided by the wisdom of the Indigenous Grandmothers and voices like Samantha Doxtator, Allen Sutherland, and Asha Frost, you will uncover truths, explore Ancestral Knowledge, and learn how to weave Indigenous perspectives into personal and professional spaces. This is your opportunity to build authentic relationships, break down barriers, and move beyond understanding to meaningful action. Walk with us to create a future rooted in respect, restoration, and relearning—because reconciliation starts with all of us, and it begins now.
IN PARTNERSHIP WITH
2 DAY EVENT
This course guides us from understanding the past to taking action in the present, so together we can build a future grounded in relationship, as a collective community.
10 years, 94 calls to action, 13 answered.
This 2-day gathering will be immersed in Indigenous culture through singing, dancing, storytelling, and HOPE (How Our People Educate). This way of being will transform your views of your role and responsibility towards achieving reconciliation together.
There will be Wellness Rooms and Elders Rooms at the Conference for Individuals who need support during the topics of discussion
Please note that this is a working agenda, and we are excited to share more details with you as we finalize the schedule.
DAY 1 :
Understanding the Past and Present
The first day of our conference is dedicated to uncovering the deep history and current realities of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. We will cycle through the day with powerful presentations from Indigenous Elders, Healers, and a Women’s Panel led by Indigenous Grandmother’s. The topics of discussions will include the historical timeline, trauma, treaties, relationships, and self-healing of Indigenous Peoples through connection to the land.
Attendees will be able to reflect and ask questions with panelists.
Schedule
7:30 AM – Registration & Light Breakfast
8:30 AM– Opening Ceremony
9:00 AM First Speaker Begins
- Allen Sutherland- Historical Timelines
- Cultural Performance
- Indigenous Connection to the Land for Self-healing with Dennis Windego
- Cultural Performance
[ Networking Lunch Hour ]
- Indigenous Grandmother’s and western physician discussion – Women’s Panel
- Question Segment
- Closing Ceremony
4:30PM Day 1 Concludes
DAY 2 :
Building a Future of Reconciliation
The second day includes current research, introduces a Community of Practice healing framework, and a short film, which explores cultural restoration and how Indigenous traditions and practices can heal the intergenerational trauma caused by residential schools. Further discussions will continue with all presenters sharing their perspectives on how we create a reconciled future together through relationships.
Attendees will be able to reflect and ask questions with panelists.
Schedule
7:30 AM – Registration & Light Breakfast
8:30 AM– Opening Ceremony
9:00 AM First Speaker Begins
- Reconciliation Research
- Film Viewing: Culture Healers, Culture Killers
- Delivery of Community of Practice – Reconciliation with Purpose: a Healing Framework with Faith Hale
- Cultural Performance
[Networking Lunch Hour]
- Building a Reconciled Future – Interactive Panel and discussion with presenters
- We are all connected with Samantha Doxtator, Indigenous Astronomy Researcher
- Closing Ceremony
4:30 PM Day 2 Concludes
THEMES OF THE CONFERENCE
Respecting Indigenous Voices
Honoring the Wisdom of Elders
This theme centers on the profound Knowledge carried by Elders, who act as bridges to the visions and teachings of our Ancestors. Their guidance is not solely theirs but part of a continuum of Ancient wisdom meant to shape a harmonious and equitable future.
Key Questions: How can the Ancestral teachings shared by Indigenous Elders help reshape systems and foster equity? What does it mean to truly honor and amplify these voices while acknowledging their deep connection to Ancestral vision in personal and professional spaces?
Restoring Ancestral Knowledge
Bridging Two-Eyed Seeing into Modern Contexts
Participants will explore the concept of Two-Eyed Seeing (Etuaptmumk), which embodies the practice of viewing the world through both Indigenous and Western perspectives. This approach honors traditional ways of knowing while embracing innovative, modern solutions to address today’s challenges. By integrating these perspectives, participants will gain insights into fostering understanding and collaboration that contribute to diversity, equity, and inclusion while respecting and uplifting Indigenous knowledge systems.
Key Questions: How can Two-Eyed Seeing reshape systems to be more inclusive and equitable? What practices can bridge Indigenous wisdom and Western methodologies to create sustainable solutions? How can organizations and individuals adopt this approach to enhance reconciliation efforts?
Relearning to Affect Reconciliation
From Awareness to Action
This theme focuses on equipping participants with practical strategies and resources to embrace reconciliation through a process of personal and collective relearning. By addressing both individual and organizational roles, participants will explore ways to foster understanding and collaboration that contribute to diversity, equity, and inclusion while integrating Indigenous perspectives into meaningful action.
Key Questions: How can individuals and organizations move from understanding to meaningful action? What frameworks and partnerships can support communities in relearning Indigenous perspectives and integrating them into everyday life? How can the process of relearning advance DEI principles by ensuring Indigenous knowledge is authentically acknowledged and applied?
KEY OUTCOMES
- Deepened Understanding of Reconciliation and Indigenous Knowledge:
Participants will leave with a profound awareness of Indigenous history, cultural practices, and the importance of reconciliation, guided by the teachings of the Grandmothers, key speakers, and Traditional Knowledge Keepers. - Actionable Strategies for Personal and Professional Change:
Attendees will develop clear, practical tools and frameworks to integrate respect, restoration, and relearning into their personal lives and professional environments, fostering meaningful change. - Strengthened Connections and Relationships:
The conference will build bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous participants, fostering empathy, collaboration, and shared commitment to advancing reconciliation through the lens of Two-Eyed Seeing. By integrating Indigenous and Western perspectives, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how to navigate shared challenges and create pathways for meaningful, inclusive change - Relearning Through Wisdom and Purpose:
Guided by the voices of speakers like Samantha Doxtator, Allen Sutherland, and Asha Frost, participants will embark on a transformative journey of relearning. They will gain a clear sense of direction and practical understanding, leaving with the knowledge and tools to create inclusive spaces grounded in Indigenous perspectives and the confidence to take meaningful, informed action. - A Framework for Ongoing Commitment:
Through interactive sessions and workshops, attendees will leave with a personalized action plan or project, ensuring that the principles and teachings of the conference extend beyond the event and contribute to long-term, sustainable transformation.
SPEAKER BIOS
The Grandmothers
The Grandmothers, including Renee Thomas-Hill and Gail Whitlow, bring the enduring strength, wisdom, and teachings of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy to the conference.
Renee Thomas-Hill Cayuga Bear of the Grand River Territory is widely known and respected for her deep Knowledge and teachings, embodying the principles of Haudenosaunee life. Her wisdom fosters a deeper understanding of Ancestral values, offering guidance toward balance and harmony.
Gail Whitlow, a Mohawk Elder and matriarch of the Turtle Clan, is the founder of the Sacred Roots Indigenous Healing Centre. Her work focuses on honoring Indigenous traditions, healing practices, and Ancestral connections, creating transformative spaces for reconciliation and personal growth.
Together, the Grandmothers will guide participants through teachings rooted in deep Ancestral connections, illuminating the principles of balance, reciprocity, and collective healing. Their insights are a cornerstone of the conference, connecting participants to the enduring wisdom of their Ancestors.
Asha Frost
Asha Frost, an Anishinaabe Medicine Woman and member of the Chippewas of Nawash First Nation, is a visionary healer, teacher, and mentor committed to guiding individuals on their journeys toward self-discovery and relearning. As the author of You Are the Medicine, Asha shares sacred teachings and stories rooted in Ancestral Knowledge, offering readers and audiences practical tools for living in alignment with their true selves.
Her work exemplifies the principles of respect, restoration, and relearning by honoring Indigenous wisdom while nurturing holistic well-being. Asha’s presentations illuminate pathways for healing by integrating traditional practices with contemporary life challenges. She invites individuals to reconnect with their inner strength, their communities, and the world around them, embodying the spirit of transformation through relearning.
Samantha Doxtator
Samantha Doxtator, Oneida, Wolf Clan, is a personal development consultant dedicated to teaching life and employability skills grounded in traditional Haudenosaunee values. A lifelong learner and researcher, Samantha shares her nurturing gifts with everyone she encounters, embodying the principle of respect through her deep connections to community and family.
Following the passing of her sister in July 2021, Samantha accepted the profound gift of continuing the work on Haudenosaunee Astronomy. This Knowledge, described as medicine by many communities, aligns with Samantha’s commitment to healing and relearning Ukwehuwe brilliance. Her presentations bridge the wisdom of Ancestral teachings with contemporary contexts, inspiring audiences to embrace the beauty and significance of Indigenous cosmology. Samantha’s work encourages individuals to integrate Indigenous perspectives into their personal and professional journeys, embodying the transformative potential of relearning through reconciliation.
Mishoomis Allen Sutherland
Waabishki Mazinazoot Michtaatim (White Spotted Horse) of Ginew Healing Lodge, Mishoomis Allen Sutherland, is an Anishinaabe from Skownan First Nation in Treaty 2 Territory and a member of the Bizhiw doodem (Lynx Clan). With over 30 years of experience spanning Indigenous, federal, and provincial government roles, as well as grassroots community work, Allen is a renowned Anishinaabek historian, Traditional Knowledge keeper, Healer, Keeper of Ginew Healing Lodge.
Through his work with White Spotted Horse, Inc., and Ginew Healing Lodge, Allen offers sought-after training on Anishinaabe history, culture, and the Indigenous World View. His Canadian Indigenous Cultural Historical Awareness training, including an Indigenous historical timeline poster he developed, dispels myths and builds understanding by connecting historical events to present-day issues. Allen bridges traditional teachings with modern realities, inspiring reconciliation and the ongoing journey of relearning.
Sponsorship Packages
Each sponsorship tier includes exclusive benefits such as complimentary tickets, recognition across social media, and acknowledgement on day-of-event materials. Details of each package are attached for your consideration.
Your partnership will not only support a necessary conference for all Canadians but also demonstrate your commitment to reconciliation and building stronger communities together.
- Complimentary Tickets: 10 tickets with reserved seating for your staff to attend the conference, “Reconciliation with Truth: A Healing Framework.”
- Indigenous Sponsorship: Sponsor four Indigenous community member, allowing your organization to directly support community participation.
- Prominent Recognition: Your company’s logo will be prominently displayed on all event materials, including the website, social media, banners, and printed programs.
- Acknowledgment: Recognition in newsletters and social media mentions before, during, and after the event.
- Content-Specific Recognition: Sponsors will have the opportunity to provide a 60-second pre-recorded message highlighting your company’s values and reasons for supporting your call to action #57.
- Post Conference Review Workshop: The team at Grandmother’s Voice will host a virtual session for all Eagle Sponsors, providing a collaborative space to discuss how to transform the conference’s insights into meaningful action.
- Recognized for Sponsoring an Indigenous Caterer to serve at the event
- Complimentary Tickets: 6 tickets for your staff to attend the conference.
- Indigenous Sponsorship: Sponsor for two Indigenous community members, allowing your organization to directly support community participation.
- Recognition: Your company’s logo displayed on the event website, social media, banners, and printed programs.
- Acknowledgment: Recognition in newsletters and social media mentions before, during, and after the event.
- Complimentary Tickets: 4 tickets for your staff to attend the conference.
- Indigenous Sponsorship: Sponsor an Indigenous community member, allowing your organization to directly support community participation.
- Recognition: Your company’s logo displayed on the event website, select social media mentions, and selected printed materials during the event.
- Acknowledgment: Mention in newsletters and during the event program.
- Complimentary Tickets: 1 complimentary ticket for you or your staff to attend the conference.
- Indigenous Sponsorship: Sponsor an Indigenous community member, allowing your organization to directly support community participation.
- Recognition: Your company’s logo displayed on selected social media mentions,and selected printed materials during the event.
- In-Kind Support: Contribution through goods or services (e.g., catering, printing, venue setup).
- Recognition: Acknowledgment on select social media mentioned and printed materials during the event.
- Acknowledgment: Inclusion in a dedicated section recognizing all in-kind contributors in event communications.
- Discounted Tickets: Offer additional tickets to your team at a discounted cost.
What You'll Gain:
- Know how to implement the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) Calls to Action in your daily life and work
- Confidence to engage in meaningful and purposeful reconciliation & healing efforts
- Deep understanding of how Indigenous approaches can be integrated with healthcare, social services, business practices, and family
Why This Matters:
The TRC’s Calls to Action are not just a government mandate—it’s a pathway for all Canadians to build a more just and inclusive society. Each of us is a “Call to Action” in our own right, with the power to effect change.
What to Expect:
- Learn directly from Indigenous leaders, healers, knowledge keepers, and community members.
- Discover how to transform the TRC’s recommendations into tangible actions
- Learn to develop and implement strategies for culturally safe, sensitive service delivery and ethical corporate engagement
- Gain insights into what it truly means to be Canadian and to live on these lands with the Original Peoples.
Time for Change:
It’s time to move beyond words and into action. This conference will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to implement real change in your personal and professional circles.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of Canada’s journey towards reconciliation. Together, we can build a future that honors Indigenous wisdom, promotes equality, and creates a stronger, more united nation for all.
Register now to move towards a healed nation.