Kairos Blanket Exercise

​The Kairos Blanket Exercise is a powerful, interactive learning experience that invites participants to explore the shared history of Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. Guided by trained facilitators, participants step into the roles of Indigenous peoples while blankets arranged on the floor represent the land. As the exercise unfolds, they experience—through scripted narratives, historical accounts, and movement—how colonization, policies, and events impacted Indigenous communities over time.

The exercise fosters empathy, deep reflection, and meaningful dialogue about reconciliation, justice, and our collective responsibility for building respectful relationships. It is both educational and emotional, offering participants the opportunity to connect with history in a way that words alone cannot convey.

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Doran Ritchie, Manager of Niagara Escarpment Biosphere Network

Doran, a respected leader from the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, is recognized for his expertise in Indigenous governance, environmental advocacy, wildlife management, and Indigenous rights strategy. As Manager of the Network, he brings a vision grounded in shared responsibility, land-based knowledge, and co-governance. For decades, Doran has championed cultural integrity, environmental justice, and the meaningful inclusion of Indigenous voices in local, provincial, and national policy.

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Chantal Garneau, Councillor Ward 3, Town of Halton Hills

Join Chantal Garneau as she shares the Town of Halton Hills’ journey toward advancing truth and reconciliation. In this session, Chantal will reflect on the steps the Town has taken to acknowledge its responsibilities, strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities, and embed reconciliation into municipal priorities. Participants will gain insight into lessons learned along the way, as well as practical strategies and best practices for fostering authentic, respectful, and lasting partnerships with Indigenous peoples.