Reflections on Nation Truth and Reconciliation
Press Release
October 2, 2024
Ernie Louttit: “My co-worker Jane wrote a powerful blog related to Truth and Reconciliation which captures the Seven Grandfather’s teachings. In her message there is Honesty, Humility, Truth, Respect, Bravery, Wisdom and Love. Reconciliation is education, the sharing of our knowledge and experiences to those who are open to hearing and learning from our Indigenous perspective.
We change the narrative one person at a time and everyday truths are spoken. Jane’s journey resonates and has been a consistent theme with our non-indigenous staff members who are vital to our team at ISN Maskwa.”
As I sit here on this cool fall morning, with my coffee in hand, I take time to reflect on the past two and a half years of my journey with ISN Maskwa. It has truly been a once-in-a-lifetime experience—one that has enriched my spirit and broadened my understanding of community and resilience.
I remember the day in March 2022 when I joined ISN Maskwa as a trainer. The drive to Thunder Bay felt long, especially in winter, and as I traveled, I wondered, Will I be accepted by the people I am about to meet? As a non-Indigenous person, and having once been a police officer, I carried the weight of past injustices that many First Nations members have endured. While I know that not all police officers have caused harm, the stigma lingered heavily in my mind.
My first day of training arrived, and nerves set in. I was stepping outside of my comfort zone, preparing to teach, support, and learn from 50 strong, proud Indigenous women—each a powerful embodiment of their communities. The anticipation grew as I knew the graduation ceremony would be attended by high-profile government officials and my own leaders. I felt the weight of responsibility.
But in truth, I had nothing to fear. The warmth and strength of my colleagues immediately put me at ease. Over these past years of working in the field, I’ve been continually amazed by the openness, kindness, and generosity of First Nations communities. While there is often a quietness in the beginning when meeting someone new, through conversations, shared laughter, and mutual respect, I have come to see that we all have the same purpose: to stand together and support First Nations in times of crisis, and to do so with humility and dedication.
I am deeply grateful for the path my career has taken. It has provided me the chance to share the skills I’ve learned, and even more importantly, to witness the incredible leadership within our organization. Every one of our Community Safety Personnel (CSPs) deserves recognition for the hard work, determination, and passion they bring. They are the backbone of this collective effort.
To those who have shared your stories of tragedy, loss, and resilience—from the scars of residential schools to the ongoing impact on generations—I say, Miigwetch. Thank you for trusting me; these stories have opened my eyes to the discrimination that too many First Nations members still face—something I have witnessed firsthand since joining ISN Maskwa.
I am honored to walk this path alongside you. Thank you for sharing your culture, your traditions, and for your patience as I ask questions and seek understanding. Together, as a team and as a community, we strive to ensure that First Nations members are no longer marginalized or mistreated. Our work is not just a task—it is a commitment to equity, respect, and justice for all.
Written by Jane Martynuck, ISN Maskwa
ILR5
