*4.3. Classroom Practices*

The way the class was structured promoted learning among participants, as outlined in the excerpts below.

I was able to begin my understanding of knowledge systems because of the culture of our virtual classroom. Jean helped foster a feeling of equity and respectful curiosity. Questions were considered and asked respectfully. Answers were considered and given respectfully. Ragged thoughts were honored and explored. As a class we felt comfortable sharing our vulnerability and extreme discomfort with the past and the current reach of colonialism. However, in class there was a consistent reminder to not center ourselves in the work. While we may be on personal journeys to understand and feel a personal responsibility in unintentionally upholding the systems of colonialism, making change isn't to make us feel more comfortable. We "are always becoming" and these changes will take time and respect for both ourselves and others. (Nicolette)

For Jennie, the "sit spot" activity was helpful in processing difficult topics:

As part of our learning process, we were encouraged to explore these difficult topics in an organic manner. Some ways that helped were mindfulness while outdoors. I would gaze at the sky while out with my dogs. Some nights it was snowing and others it was so clear where the stars were able to glisten. But no matter the weather, I would stand outside and let my mind wander through the topics I struggled to understand.

I was often sent back to moments at Uluru, where there was an overwhelming feeling of welcoming to gaze into a secret world. A world where the past, present, and future elders and members could be properly honored. Where dreaming is a way of learning and understanding. A way of communication between generations. Bob Randall, a Yankunytjatjara Elder and traditional owner of Uluru, describes this feeling exquisitely in an interview, The land owns us. Uluru "doesn't push anyone out but brings everyone in and a completeness of being who you are where you are is a really good feeling; it's a beautiful feeling and I wouldn't exchange that for anything in the world" [56]. (Jennie)

Our collective dialogues, shared reference materials and projects encouraged me to decolonize my personal knowledge systems and find respectful ways to indigenize the growing practices I center and share. (Emma)
