S2 Episode 9: Decolonizing Family Law - Part 1

ABOUT THIS EPISODE: This episode is the first of a two‑part conversation on decolonizing family law. We begin by grounding ourselves in key concepts that shape what it means to decolonize family law and legal practice. We unpack decolonization as an ongoing process, rooted in cultural humility and a willingness to move forward even when we don’t have perfect answers. The conversation explores the differences between colonial legal systems and Indigenous legal traditions, leading to fundamentally different understandings of justice and why acknowledging the limits and harms of the colonial system is a necessary step towards a more equitable, trauma‑informed approaches.

ADDITIONAL READING MATERIALS: Decolonizing Family Law through trauma-informed practices report

Myrna McCallum’s podcast, The Trauma-Informed Lawyer: https://thetraumainformedlawyer.simplecast.com/

LEGAL DISCLAIMER: Everything that we have said today is not legal advice. If you or someone you know needs legal advice, please consult with a lawyer.

TRIGGER WARNING: Our podcast series will discuss difficult topics such as gender-based violence and intimate partner violence, including physical, sexual, emotional, psychological and financial abuse. Please be aware that this is a thread that is woven throughout all the episodes, and we hope you will take care of yourselves however you need.

MUSIC: Song "Crushing", performed by Reveille (license purchased for use)

GRAPHICS: Melanie Ligale

PRODUCTION: Nithasha PremKumar

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ABOUT THE ORGANIZATION: Rise is a community legal centre providing accessible legal services to self-identified women and gender diverse people in British Columbia since 2016. Our programs and services are aimed at providing limited legal services to economically disadvantaged clients, who are self-representing in their family law matters in BC. For more information on our organization, visit Rise Women's Legal Centre.