Canada Day: Six Ways to Support Indigenous Communities
Why Orange Shirt Day
As Canada Day approaches we are reminded of Canada’s complicated history and the growing discourse around the impact of colonization and what it means to be an ally. It has become essential for employers to recognize and acknowledge the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples as part of their commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action and Inclusion.
Businesses and employees can play a vital role over this long weekend in honoring and supporting Indigenous peoples. By taking action and fostering inclusivity, individuals can contribute to the process of reconciliation and promote a more equitable Canada. Here are some ways businesses and employees can reflect, take action, and make an impact on July 1st.
By wearing an orange shirt, you can stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities, show support for Survivors and their families, and acknowledge the legacy of residential schools. Visit the Orange Shirt Society to learn more.
Learn & Unlearn - Educate Yourself and Others
Begin by educating yourself about the history, culture, and issues faced by Indigenous communities. Engage in self-reflection to understand your own biases and assumptions.
Not sure where to start? Check out the Indigenous History Resource List from the Royal Alberta Museum. Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action and create an action plan with your peers on how to integrate those calls into your policies and every day practice. Take the free Indigenous Canada online course at the University of Alberta. Share your newfound knowledge with colleagues, friends, and family in a respectful and informative manner. Encourage open discussions and create safe spaces for learning and understanding.
Acknowledge and Respect Traditional Territories
Recognize and learn about the traditional territories on which you live and work. Take the time to understand the significance of these lands to Indigenous communities. Visit Whose Land to learn about the territory your land is situated on.
Support Indigenous Organizations and Initiatives
Identify and support local Indigenous organizations or initiatives in your area. Volunteer your time, skills, or resources to assist with their projects or events. Attend cultural celebrations or workshops organized by Indigenous groups. Seek to create space and opportunities to collaborate, listen, and learn from Indigenous leaders and knowledge keepers. The Indian Residential School Survivors’ Society, the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society, Native Women’s Association of Canada, and the Victoria Native Friendship Centre are just a few examples.
Foster Indigenous Representation and Inclusion
Advocate for Indigenous representation and inclusion within your workplace. Encourage your employer to develop diversity and inclusion policies that support the hiring and advancement of Indigenous employees. Engage in dialogue about the importance of respectful representation and the need for culturally safe practices. Create spaces for Indigenous employees to share their perspectives and experiences. Organizations like Decolonize Together can provide workshops, tools, and resources to achieve this.
Use Your Voice for Advocacy
Harness the power of your voice to advocate for Indigenous rights and issues. Write letters to local representatives or government officials expressing your support for Indigenous-led initiatives and policies. Attend rallies, protests, or community gatherings that advocate for Indigenous rights and social justice. Use social media platforms to raise awareness, share educational resources, and amplify Indigenous voices and causes.
These are just a few ways to take action to support Indigenous peoples and communities across Canada. It is important to remember, however, that allyship and reconciliation are not a one-time event or gesture. These efforts should and must be ongoing. We encourage all businesses and their employees to seriously consider and reflect on how they can stand in solidarity, honour Indigenous communities, and advocate for reconciliation year-round.