An Evening with… Anisha Angella

It Starts with You: Building a Culture of DEI with Awareness and Action is an engaging, reflective workshop designed to help early childhood educators become stronger allies to Métis, First Nations and Inuit children, families, and coworkers across the early learning field. Taking place just ahead of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the session intentionally connects DEI practice to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, with particular attention to Calls to Action 12, 62, and 63, which call on educators to build understanding, respect, and inclusive learning environments grounded in Indigenous perspectives. Participants will explore the role of personal and systemic bias, deepen self-awareness, and examine how culturally responsive and inclusive practices foster children’s sense of identity, belonging, and well-being. Through virtual activities, meaningful dialogue, and practical strategies, educators will strengthen cultural competence, enhance relationships with Métis, First Nations and Inuit families and communities, and support respectful, inclusive workplace cultures.

The workshop culminates in guided action planning, empowering participants to move beyond awareness into sustained, meaningful action that honours Indigenous voices and supports reconciliation in everyday early learning practice.