— A Grassroots Signal of Hope for Healing and Reconciliation —
On Thursday, March 4th, we were honored to welcome renowned journalist, scholar, and commentator Niigaan Sinclair to participate in the inaugural Father Jim Bleackley OMI Lecture on Indigenous Justice, organized by the planning committee at St. Joseph’s Parish in downtown Ottawa.
After warm opening remarks from the moderator and St. Joseph’s community members, Donna Naughton, Executive Director of Kateri Native Ministry of Ottawa, grounded the evening with prayer and song alongside her daughter and granddaughter before introducing Niigaan and setting the tone for an evening of reflection, learning, and dialogue on social justice.
Niigaan Sinclair’s presence and insight brought both challenge and inspiration. He addressed the role of the Catholic Church and other churches, noting that apologies alone are not enough—meaningful action must follow. He highlighted the importance of Call to Action 61 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which urges churches involved in residential schools to establish permanent funding for Indigenous-led, community-controlled initiatives like Kateri Native Ministry —an organisation that has been gently supporting and contributing to Indigenous Christian leadership in Canada and has been fostering safe spaces for healing and reconciliation for over 25 years. The work is delicate.
Niigaan reminded attendees that Indigenous spiritual values and traditions share deep resonance with the teachings of Jesus, and truth before reconciliation. He also spoke candidly about integrity, faith, and the slow progress of reconciliation—while emphasizing that real signs of change are emerging. Even five years after the papal apology, he noted, Canadians are increasingly engaged, and tangible steps such as sharing land, resources, and decision-making power demonstrate commitment.
The evening also honored the late Fr. Jim Bleackley, OMI, whose life and ministry were defined by a steadfast commitment to social justice and supporting Indigenous communities on their paths to healing and spiritual self-determination. His vision continues to inspire partnerships between Indigenous-led organizations and faith communities, creating spaces where reconciliation can move from words into action.
This show of support is deeply meaningful, but it also highlights the work Kateri Native Ministry has carried forward for more than 25 years. KNM has been supporting urban Indigenous healing in Ottawa—creating safe spaces for youth, families, and Elders to reconnect with culture, ceremony, and the land. Indigenous-led and autonomous, KNM works on the front lines—meeting community members where they are and opening doors to programs otherwise out of reach. It is remarkable to reflect that KNM began in 2001, just a few years after the last residential school closed in 1997.
This inaugural Speaker Series is also part of Kateri’s ongoing 25th Anniversary celebrations, which have included:
- A landmark Reciprocal Land Use and Stewardship Agreement with the Ottawa Catholic School Board, giving Indigenous youth access to land-based programs with Indigenous teachers.
- Lead facilitation of a nationwide Indigenous Christianity Course alongside peers and Indigenous Elders from with Concordia University, Toronto School of Theology, Saint Paul University, St. Thomas More College, and Vancouver School of Theology.
- Launching The Friends of Kateri Program, a grassroots support group focused on organizing volunteers and strengthening Indigenous voices in the church.
- Direct collaborations with well established Indigenous healing and reconciliation organizations, including Feather Carriers, Returning to Spirit, and Anishinaabe Spiritual Centre.
- Ongoing partnerships and initiatives with Saint Paul University, Regis College, and other educational partners.
- Continued support from the Archdiocese of Ottawa-Cornwall, the Indigenous Reconciliation Fund, the Jesuits of Canada, and others.
- Relaunching the Kendaasawin Land-Based Spirituality Program.
- And of course our 25th Anniversary Conference, which will begin with sunrise ceremony on September 19, 2026, at Naategamaa west of Ottawa.
We are deeply grateful to the St. Joseph’s planning committee for their support in organizing the event, and for the real frontline impact of over $2,700 raised, which directly supports Kateri Native Ministry’s work in urban Indigenous healing and land-based programs. Their support demonstrates the kind of partnerships that respect Indigenous autonomy, amplify Indigenous voices, and help create real opportunities for reconciliation and community well-being.
This event was a powerful signal of hope—Niigaan sees change, Canadians are increasingly engaged, and Indigenous-led organizations like Kateri Native Ministry continues to grow. Together, these efforts are creating the kinds of direct grassroots person-to-person encounters that shift the hearts of people working in colonial institutions and correctly position Indigenous voices as leaders on Canada’s long journey towards reconciliation.