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The following is taken from an article in the Spring 2007 Nishnawbe-Aski Legal Services newsletter:

Talking Together (TT) is a restorative response to child welfare issues. TT is based on the traditional practice of caring for children in a way that allows all members of the immediate and extended family, community members, elders and community
based professionals to be involved. The program is built around a talking circle process that draws together people who know and care about the family to work as a group to support healing & family harmony and ensure that children are safe. The process is designed to support and enhance the participants' own efforts to make changes towards improving their quality of life.

TT addresses the human needs of families who are struggling with child care in efficient and culturally appropriate ways. In TT, the best interests of children are considered within the context of their families, communities and cultures. The program
honours the permanent connection of children to their birth families and is based on the principles of restorative justice, including:

• Non-judgement
  
• Listening and truth telling
  
• Confidentiality (what is said in the circle stays in the circle)
  
• Safety
  
• Responsibility
  
• Respect
  
• All those affected are welcome participants
  
• Everyone is equal

Currently, TT is available to First Nation families living in Thunder Bay or area who are part of Treaty #9 or Nishnawbe Aski Nation affiliates.

For more information about Talking Together, to book a presentation or to make a referral, please contact Robin Macdonald at Nishnawbe-Aski Legal Services:
Tel: 807.622.1413. or Toll Free: 1-800-465-5581

May 24, 2013