(The Wolf represents the value of “HUMILITY” - the greatest quality of leadership. The pack eats first, and the leader is a devoted, intelligent teacher). 

LET’S BEGIN WITH A LITTLE QUIZZ …

Ask yourself these questions, and give yourself a score out of 10:
1. Do you know the number of Treaty you belong to?
2. Can you recite a land acknowledgement?
3. Do you know the indigenous language traditionally spoken in the area where you live?
4. What’s the name of your city in that language?
5. Do your kids play with “Indian kids”?
6. Do indigenous people work in your organization?
7. Have you volunteered for an indigenous-led event?
8. Can you name just one indigenous actor, politician, artist, or scientist?
9. What does the acronym TRC mean?
10. What does MMIWG stand for?

THE BACKSTORY …

Sam remembers being tossed out of school as a boy, wandering aimlessly, cold and lost in Manitoba’s frozen winter. I was only five years old when I was taken there in the first place. Alcohol ran the reservation - there was no place to go that was safe, especially not the school at night. I endured many horrific punishments over many years. They haunt me to this day. I thought I deserved them because I thought that because my mother suddenly disappeared, I was somehow responsible for her death. I thought no one was missing me, no one wanted me. My mother was murdered. Her killers are still running free.

That was 1976. 

Anna remembers being on holiday in Canada 25 years ago (I was living in Germany), and was wandering through a bookstore that had several interesting maps on display. I casually pulled out the one on Canada to see what differences I could spot between the maps of my childhood and the brand-new edition. There was a whole new province! Wait … WHAT?! Looking closer, I could see that NWT had essentially been bifurcated and suddenly there was this new territory, with a name I was unsure as to how to pronounce: “Nunavut”.
That was 1999.

Sam and Anna have been working together professionally since the day they first met.
That was 2019. 

THE BREAKING NEWS …

Fast forward to January 2024, and a final agreement has been signed in Iqaluit over two million square kms of land and water. It transfers administrative control of Nunavut’s Crown lands and resources to the territorial government so that indigenous people can decide their own future.

WHO DID WHAT?! …

The process began in 2008 under the Conservative government, was finalized under the Liberal government, and will be continued under the Government of Nunavut and Nunavut Tunngavik Inc, which is the legal branch representing treaty rights and negotiation. 

The process is called “devolution” and has already been signed with Yukon in 1993, and NWT in 2013. It’s a step closer toward Truth & Reconciliation, but there is much still to be done. 

In the mosaic of Canadian society, the intricate relationships between First Nations, Canadian citizens, and newcomers shape the nation's fabric. Understanding the complexities, challenges, and opportunities within these connections is crucial for fostering fairer and more inclusive relationships - and creating better business.

UNPACKING TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada, established in 2008, stands as a testament to the nation's commitment to uncovering the truth about the experiences of indigenous children in “residential schools”. If you don’t know what these are, look it up. And be sitting down when you do, because it’s a living nightmare. Survivor testimonies, a crucial element of the TRC, unveiled the historical injustices (to put it mildly), horrific abuse, and cultural annihilation that was orchestrated within these institutions.

The impact of the Sixties Scoop, yet another dark chapter in Canadian history, saw thousands of indigenous children removed from their families and communities, causing a lasting ripple effect on generations. This policy, spanning from the 1960s to the 1980s, led to the displacement of indigenous children into non-indigenous homes, severing ties to their culture and identity.

Did you know that over 150,000 indigenous children (like Sam) were forcibly separated from their families and communities and placed in residential schools over the course of a century? The stain on the psyche of the nation is immeasurable, reaching far beyond the individuals directly affected.

The TRC issued of 94 Calls to Action in 2015 to address the ongoing impacts of the residential school system and advance reconciliation between indigenous and non-indigenous peoples. These recommendations span various areas, including education, language and culture, health, justice, and child welfare, providing a comprehensive framework for building a more equitable and just society. You, personally, need to participate for it to be effective.

INDIGENOUS RIGHTS

Indigenous rights in Canada are grounded in the recognition of traditional land and resource rights, seeking autonomy in self-governance, and preserving cultural heritage. The right to self-government and autonomy empowers indigenous communities to shape their social, economic, and political futures.

Consider this: Indigenous businesses contribute significantly to Canada's economy. According to a report by the National Aboriginal Economic Development Board, Indigenous businesses contributed an estimated $12 billion to Canada's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2016. Understanding and supporting indigenous economic initiatives is not just a moral imperative but also makes good business sense.

The protection and preservation of cultural heritage are pivotal, ensuring the practice and revitalization of cultural traditions, languages, and spiritual practices. These rights acknowledge the distinct identities of indigenous communities, safeguarding their cultural survival against historical assimilation efforts.

RACISM AND NEWCOMERS

Racism against indigenous people, often underreported, includes instances involving newcomers. Discrimination in education affects the well-being and educational experiences of indigenous students, destroying self-esteem, perpetuating stereotypes and cultural insensitivity. Employment disparities persist, impacting job opportunities, wage gaps, and career advancement for indigenous people.

Did you know that Indigenous people in Canada are more likely to experience unemployment than non-Indigenous Canadians? Newcomers are more likely to get a job than the original peoples. According to Statistics Canada, the unemployment rate for Indigenous people was 10.6% in 2020, compared to 7.5% for non-Indigenous people. Addressing these disparities is crucial for creating fairness, justice and an inclusive workforce and economy.

"WE ARE ALL TREATY PEOPLE"

This phrase encapsulates the shared responsibility and relationship between all Canadians and indigenous peoples, recognizing historical treaties. Treaties, negotiated for peaceful coexistence and resource sharing, apply to all Canadians, emphasizing a collective commitment to uphold their terms.

Canadians and newcomers of all types must actively participate in rectifying historical injustices and building a more inclusive society.

Consider this: The land acknowledgment, a practice of recognizing and respecting the indigenous peoples whose land we are on, is becoming a standard protocol in Canadian events and meetings. Understanding the significance of these acknowledgments and engaging in meaningful conversations about the treaties is crucial for fostering a respectful and inclusive business environment. 

ADDRESSING THE SIXTIES SCOOP AND RESIDENTIAL SCHOOLS

Understanding the deep impact of the Sixties Scoop and Residential Schools is integral to the reconciliation journey. Organizations like the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation and the Legacy of Hope Foundation provide comprehensive resources, survivor testimonies, and educational materials to deepen your understanding of these historical traumas.

But there are also indigenous-led organizations in your local area. Despite everything, they continue to welcome us, and encourage active learning and participation. There is much to be learned for the contemporary business leader by becoming a student of indigenous leadership wisdom. That’s why we offer that training at Garleff Coaching and Consulting Group under the leadership of Sam Bighetty of the Mathias Columb Cree Nation, artist, activist, and educator.

SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENTS LAST DECADE

In the last decade, Canada has witnessed significant developments in recognizing indigenous rights. The passage of the Indigenous Languages Act in 2019 supports the revitalization of indigenous languages, recognizing the inherent right to use them.

The Supreme Court of Canada's landmark decision in Tsilhqot'in Nation v. British Columbia in 2014 affirmed Aboriginal title to specific land, setting a precedent for indigenous land rights. The removal of sex-based discrimination in the Indian Act through Bill S-3 in 2019 addressed the longstanding issue of discrimination against indigenous women and their descendants.

The Canadian business landscape is evolving, with an increasing focus on incorporating indigenous perspectives and practices. Many businesses are recognizing the value of partnering with indigenous-owned enterprises, not only as a gesture of reconciliation but also for the unique insights and contributions they bring to the table.

SUPPORTING INDIGENOUS RECONCILIATION EVENTS AND PROGRAMS

To actively contribute to indigenous reconciliation, businesses can explore partnerships with organizations such as Reconciliation Canada, which offers programs and resources for fostering understanding and respectful relationships. Additionally, the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada promotes authentic indigenous experiences, creating economic opportunities for indigenous communities. 

Partnering with us could involve workshops and team-building exercises and significant educational opportunities for leadership and staff. We offer in-person and online sessions to equip participants with insights, foster an informed and empathetic approach to building fairer and more inclusive relationships, and grow leadership skills.

Consider this: Your business can play a role in shaping a narrative of inclusivity and diversity, not just as a response to societal expectations, but as a strategic imperative for long-term success. As we bridge First Nation, Canadian, and immigrant perspectives, we take a significant step towards a more united and harmonious future for all stakeholders in the Canadian business landscape.

Oh … and what was your score?

About the Author

Sam Bighetty is the Cultural Advisor with GCCG, and has worked with many organizations to produce exceptional artworks for public installations, private collections, clothing lines, novels, calendars, and murals. Sam was recently awarded an Indigenous Peoples Art grant from Calgary Arts Development for his illustrations in and publishing of a book about reconciliation "The Spiritual Journey Within: The Four Directions Of Reconciliation". Under Sam's direction, GCCG provides lectures and workshops on indigenous leadership for everyone who has ears to listen and hearts to hear.

Anna Garleff is an organizational psychologist and executive coach, with a special interest in all things technology. We’re part of the team at Garleff Coaching and Consulting Group. If this article has struck a chord, please let us know.
Anna Garleff Cell: +1 587 224 3793 / anna@garleffcoaching.com
www.garleffcoaching.com