As Chair of the Board for the Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba (MDAM), I have been reflecting deeply on the concept of reconciliation—how it shapes us as individuals and influences our professional and organizational roles. Reconciliation is a profound and necessary process, demanding that we confront our history and current practices to foster healing, understanding, and meaningful change.

For individuals, reconciliation begins with learning, acknowledging, and unlearning. This is especially crucial for those of us who live and work on Treaty lands. It requires us to step back, listen, and amplify the voices of Indigenous communities—communities whose lives have been deeply impacted by colonialism, systemic inequities, and intergenerational trauma. As mental health advocates, we must recognize that reconciliation is more than acknowledgment; it requires tangible, sustained efforts to build partnerships and cultivate mutual respect.

Professionally, and particularly in the mental health sector, reconciliation compels us to reassess how we can incorporate Indigenous perspectives and practices into our work in meaningful ways. At MDAM, this involves ensuring that our programs and services reflect cultural safety, inclusivity, and an understanding of the unique mental health challenges faced by Indigenous peoples. Addressing mental health in Indigenous communities involves acknowledging the effects of trauma, displacement, and colonization, and creating healing pathways that honor Indigenous knowledge systems alongside Western approaches to mental health care.

Our vision at MDAM is to build an understanding community that promotes awareness of mood disorders and provides hope and recovery for those affected. However, we cannot fully realize this vision without acknowledging the significance of reconciliation. Mental health and mood disorders are deeply intertwined with lived experiences, including the ongoing effects of colonialism and systemic marginalization. To truly serve all Manitobans, we must ensure that our organization is inclusive, equitable, and culturally sensitive. Reconciliation demands that we reflect on our role as an organization and how we can better support Indigenous communities.

MDAM’s history is rooted in grassroots mental health advocacy. Founded in 1983 by Gwen Finnen, MDAM has grown from a small support group for individuals with depression and manic depression into a province-wide organization. Today, we proudly support individuals living with mood disorders, along with their families, caregivers, and communities across Manitoba. Through peer support, education, and advocacy, we ensure that no one walks their mental health journey alone.

Yet, as an organization operating on Treaty 1 Territory and benefiting from resources such as the clean drinking water from Shoal Lake 40 First Nation in Treaty 3 Territory, we must continuously reflect on how we give back to the communities whose lands we occupy. This means committing to genuine partnerships with Indigenous organizations, supporting mental health initiatives for Indigenous peoples, and embedding reconciliation in our actions and practices—not just in statements.

Our mission—“Helping Ourselves, Helping Others”—guides us as we move forward in this work. By helping ourselves understand the history and impact of colonialism, we equip ourselves to help others, particularly those from marginalized communities, on their journey toward healing and recovery. Reconciliation is not a one-time act but a lifelong process, and MDAM is committed to walking this path with humility, empathy, and determination.

As we continue to support the mental health and well-being of all Manitobans, we recognize that reconciliation must be a core part of this work. It calls us to build bridges, foster understanding, and ensure that everyone—regardless of background—feels supported, heard, and valued.

In closing, we extend our gratitude to the Indigenous communities and leaders who continue to guide us in this journey. We stand with you in solidarity and are committed to contributing to a future of shared healing and mutual respect.

Together, we can create a brighter, healthier, and more inclusive future for all Manitobans.

In solidarity and hope,
Dr. Anju Bajaj
Chair, Mood Disorders Association of Manitoba