The Art of Relationship: Relationship and Community Building as Protocol

Presented by:
Toronto South-West LIP, North York Community House, City of Toronto Newcomer Office, and North-East Toronto LIP

You are warmly invited to join us for a special gathering in recognition of National Indigenous Peoples Day. This event will center Indigenous histories and contemporary realities, with a focus on community and relationship-building through shared experience, conversation, storytelling, and art.

A highlight of the gathering will be a special preview of the Orange Shirt Project installation, presented in advance of its public exhibition at the Toronto City Hall Rotunda from June 16–23.

Please confirm your attendance no later than Thursday June 11th

We look forward to your attendance.

North York Community House, SWLIP, NET LIP, TNO

Event Program

11:00 AM |Arrival, Registration & Art Viewing
Guests arrive, register, and engage with the artwork.

11:45 AM – 12:00 PM | Opening & Strawberry Teaching – Phil Davis

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM | Conversation & Reflection
A moderated conversation with Ryan McMahon, Tom Wilson, Heather George (Woodland Cultural Centre), and Bonnie Hunter (NYCH) who will reflect on their experience at the Woodlands Cultural Centre on September 30, 2025, the role of art in community-building, and how the Orange Shirt Project emerged from it.

1:00 PM – 1:30 PM | Lunch & Refreshments inspired by strawberry teachings and community gathering

1:30 PM – 3:00 PM | Community Building as Protocol

Protocol is often seen as as ceremonial etiquette—but in Indigenous perspectives, it is rooted in relationship. Ryan McMahon will lead a keynote conversation on “Community Building – The New Protocol,” while previewing his latest work on the often-overlooked contributions of Indigenous Peoples. Together, we will explore relationship and community-building as practices grounded in presence, reciprocity, and shared experience.