Do you care deeply about First Nations justice yet wonder:
How do I speak up without causing harm?
How do I respond when racism occurs?
What does effective intervention actually look like in real life?
This is a unique training opportunity grounded in Aboriginal ways of knowing and trauma-informed, healing-centred practice.
This workshop is co-facilitated by Christine Thomas, a proud Wakka Wakka woman bringing cultural authority and lived expertise in First Nations justice, and Richard Hood, an experienced non-Indigenous practitioner bringing relational accountability and restorative practice.
Facilitation methods include yarning circle processes, reflective and deep listening, scenario-based practice, visioning exercises and participatory agreement-making.
Allyship isn’t a destination – it’s an ongoing practice.
Limited to 30 participants.
More information and registration HERE https://bit.ly/4x8zk3O
A partnership between Sunshine Coast Reconciliation Group and Cygnet Centre for Peacebuilding a& Transforamtion
Wow! What an inspiring day!
Thirty enthusiastic and motivated allies gathered at the beautiful Baringa Community Centre yesterday for a day of productive engagement and deep learning at the Standing Together: Active Bystander & Anti-Racism Workshop.
Designed, delivered and expertly facilitated by Christine Thomas and Richard Hood from the Cygnet Centre For Peacebuilding & Transformation Ltd. the workshop provided participants with practical skills, thoughtful reflection and meaningful conversation about recognising and responding to racism in our everyday lives.
Christine led with wisdom, compassion and insight, reminding us that there is hope. Where there is outspoken racism, there is also growing awareness of oppression and injustice. We cannot address racism while our nation remains silent or forgetful of its history. The first step towards meaningful change is acknowledging that the problem exists.
Throughout the day, participants explored the many forms racism can take, reflected on our own responses, and practised practical, respectful ways to intervene when racism occurs. One of the most powerful messages was that it is possible to challenge prejudice with thoughtfulness, care and courage. As allies, our role is not to shame or win arguments, but to approach others from a place of regulation, curiosity and a genuine desire to call forward the best in them.
The generosity, openness and willingness of everyone in the room to engage deeply with sometimes challenging conversations created a safe and inspiring learning environment. We left feeling better equipped, more connected and more confident to stand alongside First Nations peoples and to play our part in creating communities where racism is recognised, challenged and replaced with understanding and respect.
A heartfelt thank you to Christine and Richard for their outstanding facilitation, to everyone who joined us with such openness and generosity of spirit, and to the Baringa Community Centre for providing such a welcoming venue.
Together, we are standing up, standing together, and helping to build a more just and compassionate future.
