First Nations values

You can say something like:

“Can we hold off on this meeting until I can bring someone who understands both my culture and who I am?”

“This process doesn’t feel safe. I want someone I trust with me next time.”

Your voice matters, but you don’t have to carry the whole load.

In some meetings, people might use hard language or try to rush you. If that happens, use storytelling. You don’t have to justify yourself, but you can ground your truth in your lived experience. For example:

“When I was younger, I had to hide being fa'afafine around my family. It took me years to feel safe. I need to work with people who don’t judge me.”

Or:

“As a queer Blak person, I’ve been treated badly in systems before. That’s why I’m careful about who’s involved in my supports.”