
Join us for a special panel discussion facilitated by Laridae’s Caitlin Patterson, Director of Consulting Services, exploring the topic of Decolonizing Governance.
Decolonizing governance refers to the process of reclaiming Indigenous governance systems, knowledge, and practices that have been disrupted and suppressed by colonization.
After setting the historical and positional context around ‘governance’ as it is commonly understood today, a guest panel of Indigenous leaders will share ideas, insights, and reflections to explore and unpack the concept of decolonizing governance from various perspectives.
By understanding these perspectives, participants will gain insights into how to build more just, equitable, and sustainable systems of governance that are rooted in Indigenous ways of knowing and being.
Next SessionJune 15, 2023 Format FREE WITH RSVP |
What will you learn?
In this session, participants will have an opportunity to ask questions and will learn about topics such as:
- Understanding the impacts of colonization on Indigenous governance systems
- Indigenous governance practices and systems
- What it means to “decolonize” governance
- Ideas and strategies to help begin the work of decolonizing governance
- Building and strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities
Panelists
Amber Crowe
Experienced Executive Director with a demonstrated history of working with multiple stakeholders in the family services sector. Skilled in Management, Strategic Planning, Leadership, Public Speaking and Team Building. Strong professional with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University, a Law degree from the University of Toronto, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration from Ryerson University. Experienced in and committed to First Nations issues and reconciliation.
Candace Lloyd
Candace Lloyd is a Métis cultural advisor, speaker and educator focused on cultural awareness workshops, Truth and Reconciliation training and relationship building. Candace recognizes the power of bringing people together from all walks of life; building community is a time honoured tradition of the Métis. Her goal is to find pathways to work together in the spirit of collaboration and harmony.
Charlotte Big Canoe
Charlotte Big Canoe is the Programs Curator, Indigenous Projects at the Art Gallery of Ontario, and currently sits on the board for Ojibiikaan Indigenous Cultural Network. Charlotte is of mixed heritage: father’s family is from the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation, and her mothers family is French & Irish settler. She currently resides on treaty 13 territory in Tkaronto.
Facilitated by Caitlin Patterson, Director of Consulting Services

Caitlin Patterson is a Metis woman with roots from the High Waters Region and Kawartha Lakes in Ontario. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Women’s studies with an emphasis on Indigenous women and a certificate in Non-profit Leadership for Impact from the University of Toronto. Caitlin has years of experience working with national organizations to create culturally relevant opportunities with Indigenous youth, leading program operations, brand development, and organizational growth.
As a consultant and inclusion specialist, Caitlin applies a culturally informed approach to strategic planning, facilitation and stakeholder engagement, organizational crisis/risk management, and strategic governance. Caitlin has completed projects that include cultural audits, diversity & inclusion consultations, equitable program development, diverse strategic visioning, with organizations such as Girl Guides of Canada, Association of Midwives Trust, York Catholic District School Board, Small Economy Works, and Ontario Camps Association.