Tipi of Hope’s Circle, a group of Indigenous Elders and Survivors, recommended that we create a culture of belonging across Turtle Island (Canada), as we are all connected and must embrace Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing. In response, we developed the Benches for Hope Program, designed to be a safe space with multiple benefits:

  • Creates a safe and inclusive place for all Indigenous peoples and communities.
  • Encourages reflection, inviting everyone to stop, sit, and reflect on their journey toward reconciliation.

Bench Design
Each bench is unique but shares a common purpose: to interconnect safe spaces for Indigenous peoples and communities. Our inaugural bench, located at the Joane Cardinal-Schubert High School, was designed by Alfred (Al) Dumont (Métis). “I saw all the great things Tipi of Hope was doing and wanted to get involved,” said Al Dumont. Miigwech to Al for his unwavering support.

Each bench features the Tipi of Hope trademarked logo and a customized QR code linking to resources for Indigenous services and our partners’ commitment to reconciliation. Partners involved in this program have committed to creating safe spaces for Indigenous peoples and supporting the ongoing journey of reconciliation.

We are excited to expand this program beyond the inaugural bench and are seeking partners and businesses to get involved. For more information, email info@tipiofhope.ca.