June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to reflect on the history of Canada's Indigenous peoples, to acknowledge how far we have come and the work that still needs to be done and to celebrate the unique culture of First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples. As we continue to educate ourselves, we encourage our employees, families, and business partners to take advantage of the resources and initiatives listed below. First, however, we wanted to share some exciting news:
This month, GSC is proud to join the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business as a Business Member.
ճ positions Indigenous business at the focal point for strengthening Indigenous communities, promoting progressive and prosperous relationships, and growing a new economy based on mutual respect and shared prosperity. Business Members of the CCAB are non-Indigenous organizations that are committed to creating relationships with and supporting Indigenous businesses and communities. We are honoured to be among the newest members of this network and to take action to strengthen our relationships with Indigenous enterprises and communities.
GSC's commitment
GSC is committed to engaging and collaborating with Indigenous partners in many ways, including:
- Investing in Indigenous-led social impact initiatives with organizations like (Indigenous education), the (COVID relief), (via Toronto Foundation – mental health), the (via Community Foundation of Nova Scotia – mental health) and the (via Hamilton Community Foundation – mental health).
- Celebrating Indigenous culture by supporting and participating in events when invited, such as the (Windsor) and the (ٳٲɲ).
- Offering ongoing education and learning opportunities to our employees.
- Advocating for reconciliation and commemorating the important dates of Indigenous communities.
How GSCers, friends and family can get involved
There are hundreds of celebrations and educational events happening across Canada this month. Find one that is meaningful to you and join us in honouring Indigenous history and culture. Here are some ways to get started:
- ճ has a detailed list of resources and events available to all Canadians.
- On June 19, the will be broadcast on CBC and APTN. The Indspire Awards represent the highest honour the Indigenous community bestows upon its own people.
- In honour of Indigenous History Month, is pleased to present a series of four events in celebration of the diversity of Indigenous Peoples across Canada.
Continue learning, understanding, and advocating
Truth and reconciliation
ճ (TRC) was created through a legal settlement between Residential Schools Survivors, the Assembly of First Nations, Inuit representatives and the federal government and church bodies. The TRC’s mandate was to inform all Canadians about what happened in residential schools. The TRC documented the truth of survivors, their families, communities and anyone personally affected by the residential school experience. ճ document's a list of 94 actions to be undertaken by the government, non-profits, the private sector, and all sectors of society to advance reconciliation., with only eleven completed as of December 2021. To change this, all Canadians should familiarize themselves with the TRC and the Calls to Action.
Formal learning opportunities
- ճ is a free, 12-week program that explores Indigenous histories and contemporary issues in Canada. You can complete it online at your own pace.
- ճ explores Indigenous ways of knowing and highlights how they can benefit all students. Topics include historical, social, and political issues in Indigenous education; terminology; cultural, spiritual and philosophical themes in Indigenous worldviews; and how Indigenous worldviews can inform professional programs and practices. The course is free and takes 14 hours to complete.
Informal learning opportunities and culture
- ’s
- Indigenous Corporate Training:
- Indigenous Corporate Training:
- Amnesty International:
- Historica Canada podcast on
- The Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion: (Webinar on June 21, 2:30 p.m. ET)
- The CBC’s
- The CBC’s
- Assembly of First Nations’
Advocating for truth and reconciliation
The scope of the tragedy of Canada's residential school system is so large, and it can be hard to know how we as individuals can make a meaningful difference, especially after decades of inaction. Here are some ways we can personally advocate for reconciliation:
- Learn about the traditional territories, languages and treaties in your area at Ի, and understand how to acknowledge the history of the land on which you live with a ., sheds light on how Indigenous people’s lives and histories have shaped Toronto’s origins and asks the question: in this era of reconciliation, how do we acknowledge our collective history?
- Write to your MP to ask that the Government of Canada provide adequate attention and resources to address all 94 TRC Calls to Action.
- ճ provides a global perspective on Indigenous rights and culture. Canada originally voted against the adoption of UNDRIP in 2007, though .
Support Indigenous groups and businesses
As a company, GSC is committed to increasing our support of Indigenous peoples through our Social Impact programs. For those seeking ways to contribute, below are some organizations providing support to Indigenous communities and focusing on Indigenous issues:
- ճ is based in B.C. and provides counselling and support services to the survivors of residential schools and their families. ճ also focuses on the well-being of Indigenous children and youth.
- Friendship Centres are Canada’s most significant urban Indigenous service delivery infrastructure. Find a list of Friendship Centres at the for locations in your area.
- Many organizations across Canada are working to implement the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. Some of these include the ,,, the , and the , all of which focus on advancing reconciliation.
- is the largest Indigenous-led charity in Canada and invests in the education of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people.
Finally, don't forget to celebrate
is recognized throughout June, culminating on June 21st – the summer solstice – with the celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day. We must continue to recognize and celebrate the richness of Indigenous culture, history and traditions, and strongly encourage everyone to take part and get involved:
- ճ is a multi-disciplinary arts festival in June that brings together Indigenous artists, performers, educators, students, and community members to share knowledge and celebrate Canada’s diverse Indigenous cultures.
- Indigenous Corporate Training has a list of , with options for everyone to get involved.
- ܱǰ and businesses in your community. If you’re ordering books online, for example, check out this list of across the country.
