Indigenous Protocols in Fundraising

Join us for a session led by the New School of Fundraising on Indigenous Protocols in Fundraising.

As we move forward towards truth and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples across what some refer to as Turtle Island (now known as Canada), we recognize the importance of learning from Indigenous communities to foster better relationships and honour their protocols as respectful visitors to their territories.

The Indigenous Protocols for Fundraisers workshop shares a comprehensive understanding of the cultural practices and protocols for non-Indigenous individuals, recognizing that no two communities are the same.

During this workshop, participants will:

• explore fundamental protocols, including territory acknowledgements and traditional welcomes, while differentiating between the two
• delve into effective collaboration with Indigenous peoples by embracing their worldview, valuing and respecting the wisdom of Elders, and other essential aspects
• spend time talking and sharing

It is important to note that the workshop instructors approach this subject with humility and acknowledge that they do not possess exhaustive knowledge of all diverse Indigenous Peoples and cultures. However, they bring a genuine spirit of curiosity, empathy, learning, lived and familial experiences to cultivate a safe and inclusive space for learning about Indigenous protocols.

To start us off in a good way, an Elder will join us to provide guidance and blessings.

About our presenter: Emily Cabrera

Emily Cabrera is a fund development and philanthropy professional with over a decade of experience. She is of Ojibway/Mexica/European ancestry and is a proud member of Fort William First Nation in Thunder Bay, Ontario. She resides as a guest on the lands of the Lək̓ʷəŋən People, known today as the Esquimalt and Songhees Nations.

She has a demonstrated history of building meaningful, trust-based, relationships with funders, writing grants and proposals, securing major gifts and leading strategic and organizational planning whether it's been in small shops or large institutions. Creating safe spaces and cultivating Indigenous talent is a passion of hers and she hopes to remove barriers to access through sharing her knowledge with the charitable sector.

Emily works with the First Peoples' Cultural Foundation as their Director, Strategic Partnerships & Communications, uplifting the vitality of Indigenous languages, arts and cultural heritage and strengthening Indigenous-led philanthropy across Turtle Island.

The New School of Fundraising (NSOF) is reimagining fundraising support and education. Since 2021, our virtual school has empowered hundreds of organizations and individuals to find innovative and creative ways to generate revenue, while connecting to what it means to raise money.

The New School of Fundraising (NSOF) is reimagining fundraising support and education. Since 2021, our virtual school has empowered hundreds of organizations and individuals to find innovative and creative ways to generate revenue, while connecting to what it means to raise money.