IRF Project Collections
Projects Supported by the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund
(New projects added every month)
The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund supports initiatives that address the historical trauma, intergenerational impacts and systemic injustices faced by Indigenous people.
Grants are provided for programs and projects that promote emotional, mental and physical healing for communities and families, ultimately contributing to a path of reconciliation and restoration of
well-being.
Giving Reconciliation a Home
The experiences and stories shared by Canadian residential school survivors are what paved the way to “reconciliation” as we know it today. More than four million records, including statements, documents, oral histories and sacred items have been entrusted to the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR), with millions more still to come. This irreplaceable collection contains records of survivors’ most painful moments, and it gives witness to the stories of those who did not survive. And yet, this vital collection is scattered across the country.
Blurring the Lines on Gender
In contrast with colonial views, gender roles in Indigenous communities have historically been fluid. Over centuries, these traditional roles have become warped by western influence, leaving many young Indigenous men in a state of disconnect and confusion as to where they belong. Many struggle daily, wondering who they are, who they should be, and what role they should play between these two diverging viewpoints.
Preserving and revitalizing Indigenous cultures and languages allows Indigenous communities to reconnect with their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Through grants provided for language revitalization programs, traditional arts and crafts or cultural education initiatives, Indigenous traditions and identities are celebrated and can be passed down to future generations.
A Shared Voice
The Métis people are a unique Indigenous group formed from a blend of cultures, traditions and heritages. Their spoken language, Michif, is as equally distinct as its peoples. However, like many hundreds of other Indigenous languages, it is at risk of being lost – taking with it a vital connection to identity, history and culture. That is why Michif is being added to the national push for revitalization within communities, with younger generations acting as key pillars in its preservation.
Bringing Back our Voice
Language is the heart of culture. It determines how we communicate with one another, share stories and build relationships. For Indigenous Peoples who did not have written words prior to colonization, language is how their culture and traditions survived from generation to generation. However, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has found that Indigenous languages are at risk of dying out, with 75% of those in Canada considered endangered.
Education and community building are key drivers of reconciliation efforts. Funds provided for educational programs, workshops and community-building activities can help bridge knowledge gaps, strengthen ties between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people and promote a deeper understanding of Indigenous history, experiences and knowledge.
We Are All Unique
The journey of faith is one unique to each individual, shaped by life experiences, personal beliefs, values and culture. A one-size-fits-all approach can be ineffective at meeting the needs of someone walking their own path. This is especially true for Canada’s three distinct Indigenous groups; First Nations, Inuit and Métis.
Our Spirit, Our Gratitude
The St. Anne’s Christmas Bazaar has become a household event in Ottawa over the last decade. This annual marketplace of local vendors, holiday festivities, children’s corners and a silent auction, has Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members alike looking forward to gathering in celebration and holiday spirit each year. As the St. Anne’s Christmas Bazaar is set to return in 2025 for its 11th year, St. Anne’s is looking to give back and recognize those who have made this event a success.
Grants are available to support programs, gatherings and events that facilitate the reconnection with and celebration of Indigenous spirituality and cultural practices.
These initiatives are an opportunity to foster awareness and appreciation of Indigenous worldviews, values and spiritual beliefs and contribute to a more inclusive society where Indigenous voices and traditions are honored and respected.
Elevating Indigenous Voices in Global Cinema
Hollywood has seen an increase in voices calling for more recognition of films featuring or directed by minority groups. While some have been amplified, those by Indigenous Peoples have been left behind. Despite sharing rich stories rooted in culture, history and entrancing traditions, less than 3% of Indigenous-created films reach global distribution.
From End to Beginning
Dignity in death is a simple, yet profound question many contemplate at end-of-life. For Indigenous Peoples whose traditions are rooted in ceremony, community and ancestry, finding services that deliver critical healthcare while holistically guiding the spirit onto its next journey can be difficult. Many hospice services are unequipped to incorporate cultural sensitivities into end-of-life care.
