"What is Truth & Reconciliation?" is a powerful Truth Talk led by Elder Ma-Nee Chacaby, a Two-Spirit Cree Knowledge Keeper and celebrated Artist, Activist, Public Speaker, Author, and Actor. Elder Ma-Nee has dedicated her life to advocating for the rights and well-being of Indigenous people, with her work also extending to the broader advocacy for humxn rights for all people, particularly youth and those who are marginalized.

In this deeply insightful session, Elder Ma-Nee will draw on her profound experiences and teachings to confront the ongoing challenges of reconciliation in Canada. Building on the themes explored in her art exhibition "23 Days to Love My Self," where she delves into the complexities of self-love and healing, Elder Ma-Nee will bring forward hard truths about the state of reconciliation today. She will emphasize that true reconciliation requires more than just words—it demands meaningful action, understanding, and a willingness to engage in the difficult work of forgiveness.

Elder Ma-Nee will guide participants through practical steps that both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people can take to move towards genuine reconciliation. Her approach is both compassionate and direct, offering not just a critique of where efforts have fallen short, but also a roadmap for how individuals and communities can come together to cultivate healing and unity. This talk is not just about reflection—it’s a call to action for everyone dedicated to making reconciliation an ongoing reality.

Through her storytelling and wisdom, Elder Ma-Nee Chacaby will inspire attendees to look within, understand the importance of forgiveness, and take tangible steps towards building a future where reconciliation is not just a promise, but a practice embedded in our daily lives. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from one of the most respected voices in the movement for Truth and (re)Conciliation.

Join us for an evening of reflection, (un)learning, and community at Queen Books with Two-Spirit Cree Knowledge Keeper, Elder Ma-Nee Chacaby. This unique in-person Truth Talk, titled "Cedar Tea: Sharing Many Truths, for a Better Present and Future," offers the chance to experience the wisdom and teachings from Elder Ma-Nee’s powerful autobiography, A Two-Spirit Journey: The Autobiography of a Lesbian Ojibwa-Cree Elder.

As you sip on homemade cedar tea, Elder Ma-Nee will share deeply personal stories and explore the teachings passed down from her Kokum (grandmother). These teachings, rooted in resilience and healing, are central to her life’s work as an Elder, artist, and activist. Through her Truth Talk, Elder Ma-Nee will discuss the vital themes of Truth and (re)Conciliation, offering insights on how we can all move forward together in a good way.

Date & Time:
📅 Wednesday, October 16th
🕕 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Location:
📍 Queen Books
914 Queen St. East, Toronto

This event is a rare opportunity to engage with Elder Ma-Nee in a meaningful conversation about the journey of (re)Conciliation, the importance of Indigenous teachings, and the power of sharing stories. Whether you’re an Indigenous or non-Indigenous participant, this gathering offers a space for connection, reflection, and the chance to foster genuine understanding.

Spaces are limited—register today to secure your spot and be part of this special evening.

We invite you inside The X Gallery (in Virtual Reality) by Superstar X, where celebrated Two-Spirit Cree Knowledge Keeper, Elder Ma-Nee Chacaby shares Kokum’s Journey, a deeply personal exploration of the wisdom passed down from her kokum (grandmother) and the impact it has had on her life. Through her evocative artwork, Ma-Nee shares stories of how her kokum’s teachings shaped her path, such as the powerful lesson that "the animals saved us."

These teachings were foundational to Ma-Nee's journey as an artist, activist, and advocate for Indigenous rights. Now a kokum herself, Ma-Nee reflects on what it means to walk this path—imparting the wisdom passed down to her, while also sharing the layered experiences of her own life. As a Two-Spirit Elder, her art embodies the intersection of tradition, identity, and resilience. Through her role as a kokum to many, Ma-Nee continues to advocate for humxn rights, particularly for marginalized youth and those often unheard.

Kokum’s Journey is not just an art show; it is an invitation to witness the continuation of ancestral knowledge, healing, and love through Ma-Nee’s vibrant and moving creations. Join us for this powerful art exhibition, where stories of family, heritage, and survival blend into an expression of strength, identity, and enduring wisdom.