How to Recognize Truth & Reconciliation at Work
In recent years, Canada has witnessed a growing recognition of the need to address historical injustices and promote healing among diverse communities.
Truth and Reconciliation, commemorated on September 30th, is a powerful framework designed to facilitate the reconciliation between Indigenous peoples and settler societies.
In this article, you will find:
History of Truth & Reconciliation
Truth & Reconciliation efforts in Canada center primarily on the Indian Residential School System, when the government-funded and church-operated schools forcibly removed Indigenous children from their families and cultural heritage, causing profound intergenerational trauma.
Key moments in this commemoration include:
In 2008, the Canadian government formally apologized for its role in the system. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) was established to document the experiences of survivors and provide recommendations for reconciliation.
In 2015, the TRC released its final report, which included 94 Calls to Action, urging various sectors, including workplaces, to take steps toward reconciliation.
In 2021, the Canadian government officially designated September 30th as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a statutory holiday in federally regulated workplaces.
“Together, Canadians must do more than just talk about reconciliation; we must learn how to practise reconciliation in our everyday lives
- within ourselves and our families, and in our communities, governments, places of worship, schools, and workplaces.”
-From the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Report
Importance of Truth & Reconciliation
Understanding the significance of Truth and Reconciliation at work begins with recognizing its profound impact. As of 2015, it was estimated that approximately 80,000 survivors had experienced the Indian residential school system.
While this system no longer exists, the legacy of intergenerational trauma persists, profoundly affecting numerous Indigenous individuals and their communities, underscoring the urgent need for reconciliation efforts.
The importance of recognizing Truth & Reconciliation:
Truth & Reconciliation initiatives contribute to the healing process by acknowledging past wrongs and actively working toward reconciliation and a more equitable future.
Organizations that observe Truth & Reconciliation align with broader diversity and inclusion goals, creating a workplace culture that embraces differences and promotes social responsibility, which in turn leads to stronger teamwork and helps foster innovation.
These activities enrich workplace culture by incorporating Indigenous art, traditions, and values into the daily work environment.
Truth & Reconciliation activities provide opportunities for open dialogue and constructive conversations on reconciliation, allowing employees to contribute to the process and truly have their voices heard in the workplace.
Truth & Reconciliation can be a challenging event for workplaces to properly recognize. Here are a few examples of organizations that have observed this event:
Vancity, a Canadian credit union, is known for its commitment to social responsibility and that is why Reconciliation is one of Vancity’s core organizational values. It has invested in projects and partnerships to address historical injustices, support Indigenous communities, and advance social and environmental justice.
Teck Resources, a mining company based in Canada, has worked on initiatives to foster understanding and collaboration with Indigenous communities, recognizing their rights and heritage.
Enbridge is an energy infrastructure company that has engaged in partnerships and initiatives that support Indigenous communities and promote reconciliation through meaningful dialogue and economic opportunities.
How to Support Indigenous Employees During Truth & Reconciliation
Supporting your Indigenous employees during Truth and Reconciliation initiatives is crucial. Here are some steps you can implement to ensure your Indigenous employees feel valued and included not only during this time but all year round:
Offer flexibility to Indigenous employees participating in Truth and Reconciliation events or ceremonies. This can include paid time off or flexible working hours to accommodate their needs.
Create a supportive work environment. This necessitates the implementation of well-defined anti-discrimination policies and procedures, along with a commitment to protecting Indigenous individuals from all forms of workplace harassment or bias. If your organization doesn’t yet have a Land Acknowledgement, you can use our free guide.
Actively engage in learning, organize educational workshops on Indigenous issues, and provide ongoing Indigenous resources to employees and in relation to Truth & Reconciliation events.
Establish Indigenous employee resource groups or networks within your organization. These groups can provide a supportive community for Indigenous employees and offer a platform for sharing ideas and concerns.
By taking these steps, your organization can contribute to the process of healing and reconciliation and build stronger relationships with Indigenous communities.
Tips for Recognizing Truth & Reconciliation at Work
It is important that participation in Truth & Reconciliation activities remains entirely optional. This approach acknowledges the diverse range of feelings and perspectives individuals may have during this period of reflection and healing. This history can be a stressful and anxious time for some.
Always consult with Indigenous Voices. Engage with Indigenous individuals and organizations in your community or industry. Seek their guidance and input to ensure that your T&R initiatives are culturally sensitive and appropriate.
Ensure your Truth & Reconciliation initiatives are ongoing. They should not be limited to a single day or event. Commit to making reconciliation an ongoing effort within your organization. Continuous learning and actions are key to meaningful change.
Reflect in Policy Review and update your workplace policies to ensure they align with the principles of Truth and Reconciliation. Consider incorporating Indigenous land acknowledgments and anti-discrimination clauses.
Truth & Reconciliation Activities for Every Workplace
Learning Sessions or workshops where employees can gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous history, cultures, and the significance of Truth and Reconciliation. Consider inviting Indigenous speakers or educators to share their knowledge and experiences.
Film Screenings featuring documentaries or films that highlight Indigenous perspectives, history, or current issues. Follow these screenings with discussions to encourage employees to share their thoughts and insights.
Start a book club focused on Indigenous literature. Select books written by Indigenous authors that provide valuable insights into Indigenous culture, history, and contemporary challenges. Encourage employees to read and discuss these books.
Enhance your workplace with Indigenous art and displays. Artifacts, paintings, or sculptures can serve as conversation starters and visual reminders of the importance of Truth and Reconciliation.
Allocate resources or funds to support Indigenous causes and organizations. This can include donating to Indigenous charities, sponsoring Indigenous events, or partnering with Indigenous-owned businesses.
Support and recognize Employee Resource Group (ERG) for your Indigenous employees within the company. These groups provide a platform for Indigenous team members to connect, share experiences, and collaborate on initiatives that promote cultural awareness and inclusivity.
Indigenous Festivals/Performances serve as vibrant celebrations of Indigenous heritage, showcasing traditional dances, music, storytelling, and visual arts.
Another powerful avenue for participating in Truth and Reconciliation activities in the workplace is through Indigenous music. Consider hosting Indigenous musical performances or incorporating Indigenous playlists during events and gatherings.
Wear an orange shirt or purchase Indigenous Merchandise. Your team could purchase Indigenous merchandise, which not only celebrates Indigenous creativity but also supports Indigenous artists and entrepreneurs. By wearing orange shirts or proudly displaying Indigenous merchandise, you demonstrate your solidarity with Indigenous communities.
Volunteering your time or fundraising for Truth & Reconciliation initiatives is a tangible way to make a positive impact. Many organizations and community groups actively seek volunteers to support their Truth & Reconciliation projects, events, and educational programs.
Consider incorporating personal stories and experiences through employee spotlights or blog posts. These features can provide a platform for Indigenous employees to share their personal journeys, challenges, and accomplishments.
Recognize Truth & Reconciliation in Colleges and Universities
Integrate Indigenous history, culture, and perspectives into the curriculum at all levels of education. Ensure that Indigenous content is accurate, respectful, and comprehensive. Taking a field trip to the museum is a great way for students and faculty to engage in learning about Indigenous culture and heritage. Here are a few to try out:
Invite Indigenous elders, knowledge keepers, scholars, and artists to speak or lecture at your institution. Their firsthand experiences and expertise can enrich the educational experience.
Expand your library's collection to encompass a diverse array of Indigenous literature, resources, and research materials is pivotal in commemorating Truth & Reconciliation in schools. It broadens students' access to Indigenous perspectives and knowledge and fosters a culture of inclusivity and understanding.
Recognize Truth & Reconciliation at Healthcare Facilities
💡Did you know that eight of the 94 calls to action are aimed at wide-ranging transformations to health care?
Appoint an Indigenous health liaison or navigator to assist Indigenous patients in navigating the healthcare system, advocating for their needs, and connecting them with culturally appropriate services.
Provide cultural competency training for healthcare professionals to ensure they understand and respect Indigenous patients' cultural beliefs, practices, and healthcare needs.
Create support groups for Indigenous patients facing similar health challenges, providing a sense of community and understanding.
Recognize Truth & Reconciliation at Government Offices and Public Institutions
Begin meetings, events, and official communications with an Indigenous land acknowledgment to recognize and honour the traditional territories on which government offices and institutions are located.
Prioritize procurement from Indigenous-owned businesses and suppliers. Encourage contracts and partnerships that benefit Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities.
Develop policies and guidelines that promote Indigenous rights, equity, and inclusion within government operations and service delivery. Not sure where to start? Check out our Free DEI Policy Template!
Additional Resources for Truth & Reconciliation
The National Residential School Crisis Line 1-866-925-4419
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action
National Centre for Truth & Reconciliation - Education Resources