Safe Space Declaration

A Declaration of Safe Spaces

Friendship Centres are devoted to fostering inclusive, welcoming, and culturally respectful environments for everyone. Rooted in the traditions and teachings of Indigenous communities, these spaces promote safety, understanding, and a true sense of belonging. As pillars of support, Friendship Centres provide a haven where all individuals and families can connect, heal, and flourish free from fear or judgment.

The early beginnings of the Friendship Centre movement in Canada was built on the concept of providing a safe space for migrating Indigenous peoples off reserve and off settlement.  A space where they would feel welcome, safe, and a harbour from the discrimination and racism they were facing moving into towns and cities from their home communities. For over 60 years, a safe space has been a fundamental value of the Friendship Centre Movement.

In the Fall of 2024, ANFCA’s member Friendship Centres established and signed a Safe Space Declaration. Friendship Centres are committed to honouring all who walk their doors and offer the hand of Friendship that encompasses Indigenous values of respect, relationship, reciprocity, and responsibility.

A safe space is defined as a place where all individuals including community members, staff, volunteers, and partners can fully and comfortably participate without fear of being harassed or discriminated against because of their biological sex, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, cultural background, age, or physical or mental ability.  This includes non tolerance of acts of misogyny and misandry.