Finding the Path, Walking in Allyship

The series concludes with a hopeful and practical conversation about moving forward together. Jan and Marlene reflect on lessons from the series and invite listeners to commit to tangible next steps, one personal and one organizational. The episode emphasizes relationship-building, humility, shared accountability, and the power of “sacred conversations” where people feel safe to ask questions and...

This episode shines a light on the often-overlooked contributions Indigenous peoples have made to communities, governance, science, and everyday life. From the foundations of democracy to the building of Edmonton itself, Marlene shares stories that challenge long-held narratives about Indigenous knowledge and innovation. The discussion calls for a broader understanding of what accomplishment looks...

Land acknowledgements are more than ceremonial words — they are opportunities for learning, respect, and truth-telling. In this episode, Jan and Marlene discuss how individuals and organizations can create meaningful land acknowledgements grounded in research, relationship, and personal reflection. The conversation also addresses why acknowledging Indigenous history matters today, how family stori...

This episode examines what accountability truly means when walking in allyship. Rather than focusing on guilt or blame, the conversation centres on responsibility, capacity-building, and repairing harm. Marlene shares why allies must ask where their actions may unintentionally cause harm, how resources can be redirected to support Indigenous leadership, and why access to culture matters first and...

Building on discussions of systemic racism, this episode explores the lasting impacts of child welfare and justice systems on Indigenous families and communities. The conversation draws parallels between residential schools, the Sixties Scoop, and present-day child welfare practices, highlighting how trauma continues through punitive systems. Marlene explains why healing-centred approaches matter,...

The series opens with a foundational conversation about systemic racism. What it is, where it comes from, and why good intentions alone are not enough to dismantle it. Hosted by Jan Fox and featuring Marlene Orr, the episode explores how policies and institutions, not individuals, often create barriers for Indigenous peoples. Listeners are invited to shift from defensiveness to understanding, and...

Join REACH Edmonton’s Jan Fox and Native Counselling Services of Alberta’s Marlene Orr, as they explore the history of settler-Indigenous relations, what it means to be an ally, and how we can build a better future together.