Coalition Charter

VISION

First Voice envisions a world where the inherent rights of the Indigenous Peoples of Newfoundland and Labrador are respectfully recognized and actively supported by all.

VALUES

In pursuit of its Vision, First Voice shall be guided by the following Values:

• Respect: A process of honouring the land, the waters, and all the peoples and cultures who inhabit it, including Indigenous knowledge and teachings.
• Self-Determination: An affirmation of the inherent right of all Indigenous Peoples to determine their own futures and to participate fully and actively in all decisions that affect them.
• Holism: A recognition of the essential interconnectedness of all things and a striving for balance and harmony with respect to the mind, body, and spirit.
• Collaboration: A commitment to include all voices and perspectives and to work together in an open and transparent way.
• Humility: A willingness to trust, engage with, and learn from those with diverse experiences and perspectives.

MEMBERSHIP

i. Composition

First Voice welcomes the participation of all who are committed to advancing its Vision, Mandate, Values, and Objectives. This includes:

• Federal and provincial departments and agencies;
• Municipal governments;
• Indigenous governments and organizations;
• Community organizations;
• Businesses and business organizations; and
• Individuals.

ii. Roles

Membership in First Voice varies based on organizational affiliation and level of commitment. It consists of the following roles:

1. Partners: Organizations that agree to participate actively and regularly in the coalition, including contributing to its governance and strategic direction, for a period of at least two years. Partners may also be expected to make material contributions from time to time to support the coalition’s work. Terms of membership for Partners are renewable.
2. Contributors: Organizations that agree to participate in a narrower capacity, such as serving on one or more Action Circles or Working Groups. No specific term of membership is required for Contributors.
3. Community Advocates: Individuals without specific organizational affiliations who agree to serve for a specific period of time and to participate actively and regularly in the coalition. Terms of membership for Community Advocates are renewable.
4. Special Members: Individuals with or without specific organizational affiliations whose rights, responsibilities, and terms of membership are determined by the Partnership Table on a case-by-case basis.

In addition, First Voice may from time to time invite other individuals or organizational representatives to participate in the coalition as non-member Observers. There are no specific rights or responsibilities associated with such status.

iii. Representation

All Partners and Contributors shall designate a single Principal Representative to serve on their behalf at the coalition. Principal Representatives must be either decision-makers or influencers within their own organizations. They are responsible for the following duties:

• Preparing for and participating in all meetings as required;
• Representing the interests and perspective of one’s own organization at the coalition;
• Moving information shared at the coalition through one’s own organization;
• Undertaking to learn about the Indigenous cultures of Newfoundland and Labrador; and
• Promoting action within one’s own organization and the broader community in pursuit of the coalition’s Vision and Objectives.

Principal Representatives may further designate a single Alternate Representative to carry out any or all of the above duties from time to time. This includes orienting Alternates and keeping them informed of coalition business. Neither Community Advocates nor Special Members may designate Alternates.

iv. Admission

The process for admitting new members depends on their desired role. An organization wishing to join as a Partner must be nominated by a current Partner and then be confirmed by the Partnership Table. An organization wishing to join as a Contributor must be invited by a current Partner. An individual wishing to join either as a Community Advocate or as a Special Member must be nominated by a current Partner and then be confirmed by the Partnership Table.

v. Code of Conduct

Everyone who participates in First Voice agrees to abide by its Code of Conduct.

DECISION-MAKING

i. Process

First Voice shall adopt an inclusive and collaborative process that ensures all participants have the opportunity to share their perspectives with the group before any substantive decision is made. Participants shall endeavour to achieve consensus, meaning that everyone:

• Feels they have been heard;
• Understands the reasons for the decision and the need to take action; and
• Can support the final outcome, even if they personally hold an opposing view.

Observers are not entitled to participate in or be present during the decision-making process.

ii. Quorum

No substantive decision shall be made at any meeting of the Partnership Table, Action Circles, or Working Groups unless a majority of Indigenous members who are entitled to attend are present.

AMENDMENTS

This Coalition Charter is intended to be a living document. It may be amended in writing after discussion at any regular meeting of the Partnership Table and ratification at the following regular meeting.