The Role of Engagement and Communications in Reconciliation

Reconciliation is often discussed as a goal, something to be accomplished and then done with. We think, however, that reconciliation happens through relationships and is an ongoing journey best built through conversations and a willingness to listen, learn, and work together.

For organizations, governments, and businesses, engagement and communication play an important role in that process. Reconciliation is an opportunity to think differently to build understanding, strengthen relationships, and create space for Indigenous voices to help shape future outcomes.

Listening Before Moving Forward

One of the most important lessons in meaningful engagement is that listening comes before action. Meaningful engagement requires taking the time to understand perspectives, lived truths, histories, concerns, and priorities before decisions are made.

Listening well means approaching conversations with curiosity and humility. Specific to reconciliation, it means recognizing that communities and Nations bring valuable knowledge, lived experience, and perspectives that can improve outcomes for everyone involved.

In our work with Esk’etemc, helping support the engagement and communication of their Specific Claims, we have found that the best outcomes are often found when we spend less time presenting and more time listening. That’s where we can uncover the gems – those personal stories that help bring a better understanding.

Respectful Engagement Builds Trust

We’ve found that respectful engagement starts by recognizing that every Nation, community, and relationship is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Taking the time to understand protocols, governance structures, priorities, and preferred ways of working demonstrates respect and helps create a stronger foundation for collaboration.

Can I tell you honestly that I have messed this up before, too. On several occasions! I think though it was my approach and willingness to learn that came across, coupled with the kindness of individuals to show me, teach me, and welcome me into the culture that helped create a certain kinship. I’ve been gifted a protection necklace and a commitment stick from elders, and I’ve created tobacco pouches to give as small gifts of thanks because I’ve learned, and continue to learn, what is respectful.

Respectful engagement also means being honest about what is open for discussion, what decisions have already been made, and how input will be considered. Communities want to know that their time and contributions are valued. When people understand how their input is being used, trust grows.

Equally important is reporting back. Too many engagement processes end once feedback has been gathered. Closing the loop by sharing what was heard, what was learned, and what actions will be taken demonstrates accountability and will help strengthen long-term relationships.

Reconciliation Is a Long-Term Commitment

Reconciliation is not achieved through a single meeting, project, or engagement process. I would suggest that in any culture, strong relationships are built over years, not weeks. They require ongoing communication, regular opportunities for dialogue, and a genuine commitment to understanding each other's priorities and perspectives.

Those who view engagement as a long-term investment rather than a project-specific requirement are often better positioned to build trust and work through challenges when they arise. This shift from transactional engagement to relationship-based engagement is one of the most important changes we can all make.

Keeping Future Generations in Mind

I’ve found that many Indigenous communities make decisions by considering how actions today will affect children, grandchildren, and generations yet to come. This long-term perspective offers an important lesson and is something I personally wasn’t taught growing up to think seven generations ahead, but I love and respect it. So then, effective engagement is not only about solving today's challenges, but it is also about creating conditions for stronger relationships, healthier communities, and better outcomes in the future.

When we approach engagement with a generational mindset, conversations often become more thoughtful, collaborative, and focused on shared success. Decisions are measured by the legacy they will then leave behind.

Moving Forward Together

At Amplify, we know and believe meaningful engagement begins with listening. The most successful projects are the ones that take the time to understand people, build relationships, and create space for meaningful dialogue. Engagement and communication can help create the conditions that make reconciliation possible by fostering understanding, building trust, and supporting collaborative decision-making.

We invite you to join us to listen first, learn continuously, and keep future generations in mind. Collectively, we can all create opportunities to move forward in a way that is respectful, thoughtful, and lasting. - Aleece