Absolutely.
As I think you know, it's really critical that there's representation there—someone who understands the effects of systems that have impacted us as indigenous people. Look at Indian residential schools, the sixties scoop, the child welfare system or MMIWG2S+. We've been impacted by so many systems. We have to ensure that we inform a culturally appropriate lens and trauma-informed approach.
It's also rooted in indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing. When I say that, I mean that we have to ensure the spaces feel safe to us as indigenous people and that the services provided are culturally appropriate as well.
We may have a ceremony attached to the individual who is filing the complaint so that we are adequately taking care of their well-being, their emotional and spiritual well-being, as well as creating that opportunity for healing. It's very traumatic when you think you are seeking supports and resources that are safe for you but have a negative experience. You know, it really impacts your life, and your trust of systems as well. We have to look at how we build those. They have to be independent of any political or government structure, and led by indigenous people.