This spring’s team retreat in Winnipeg, Treaty One territory, on the lands of Anishinaabe, Ininiwak, Anishininew, Dakota, and Dene, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis, was primarily held at the Wyndham Garden Hotel for three days, where the entire CIER team had a chance to meet face-to-face for the first time in 2023.  

The staff retreat began its first day with an opening prayer from Elder Barbara Nepinak, then hearing Henry Lickers share traditional teachings about environmental policies. The team then dove into long-term planning and accomplishments before breaking into groups to review communications styles as outlined by SDI’s Core Strengths program. Later that evening, the team enjoyed a fantastic dinner at Corrientes in the Exchange District. 

On the second day, CIER’s team went to Brokenhead Ojibway Nation to learn and experience an interpretive trail hosted by Carl Smith and Taylor Galvin—a nature walk that included views of wetlands and the boreal forest, accompanied by eagles, garter snakes, and squirrels.

The final day of the retreat included gifts of ribbon shirts and skirts, and beaded brooches and keychains, from the amazingly talented Anita Murdock and her mom. The team then attended the Manito Ahbee Festival’s opening ceremony, where the team witnessed speeches from Chiefs and a variety of influential folks from across Manitoba. 

The retreat was a success in that it moved internal conversations forward while simultaneously bringing most of the team together to meet in person—for a few team members, this was their first retreat. We hope to continue to make meaningful impacts as we collaborate with such a diverse group of project partners and stakeholders.