November 13, 2024
Melissa Lundy, left, founder and president of the Tipi of Hope Foundation, shares a moment with artisan Alfred Dumont, who crafted the bench. Photo by Leah Hennel.
Story by Melanie Veriotes | Photo by Leah Hennel
CALGARY — The Tipi of Hope Foundation has unveiled its first Bench for Hope to create an interconnected safe space for Indigenous peoples when they visit the Peter Lougheed Centre (PLC).
On Oct. 30, the event was celebrated with a smudging ceremony to cleanse the space and set a sacred intention for healing, community and connection. The bench was crafted by Alfred Dumont, an Indigenous artisan whose work embodies the deep cultural significance of the project.
“Each bench is unique,” says Melissa Lundy, founder and president of the Tipi of Hope Foundation, “but all share a common purpose to provide a welcoming, inclusive place for Indigenous individuals and communities — to rest and reflect on their personal journey of reconciliation — while fostering a space for connection, healing, and shared understanding.”
The Benches for Hope program, created by the Tipi of Hope Foundation in collaboration with Indigenous Survivors and Elders, aims to build interconnected safe spaces for Indigenous peoples across Canada.
This first Bench for Hope at PLC was made possible through donations and partnerships with Just B Diversity and Consulting, Intrinsi Health and Alberta Health Services. The Bench for Hope also features the Tipi of Hope logo and a customized QR code, which offers direct links to resources for Indigenous wellness services and reconciliation efforts.
“This bench is more than a piece of furniture,” says Nicholas Thain, senior operating officer at the PLC. “It embodies our commitment to inclusivity, understanding, and support for Indigenous culture and traditions.”
Lundy emphasizes the program’s broader vision. “Benches for Hope is a step toward addressing systemic racism and discrimination, and we hope it continues to break down barriers for Indigenous communities.
“This is a crucial step in reconciliation, providing better access to services for Indigenous patients. But it's just the beginning. Reconciliation requires both reflection and action. Our partners are committed to addressing prejudice, racism, and discrimination, and this program aims to continue breaking down these barriers.”
For more information on the program, visit Tipi of Hope.
Tipi of Hope is actively working to expand its Benches for Hope program and is seeking additional partners, funding and Indigenous carpenters to construct more benches. Interested? You can contact Info@tipiofhope.ca to learn how you can contribute to this meaningful journey of reconciliation.
