Originally posted by our Indigenous partner, Stream Source, we are proud to share their insights on actionable ways companies and individuals can work towards a more equitable future for Indigenous communities.
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True reconciliation begins when we commit to change. Every year, on September 30, National Truth & Reconciliation Day challenges us to reflect on our shared history while building pathways for a better future with Indigenous communities. At Stream Source, we see this day as a powerful reminder of our ongoing commitment to fostering positive change and creating opportunities that help Indigenous communities thrive.
As an Indigenous-owned company, National Truth & Reconciliation Day resonates deeply with us. Our mission has always been about making a difference — connecting under-represented groups with meaningful employment and partnering with businesses to create inclusive workplaces that benefit everyone.
Two of the most pressing Calls to Action for the business community identified by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, are Calls to action 7 and 92. These calls address gaps in education and employment for Indigenous peoples and call upon businesses to integrate respect, equity, and meaningful engagement into their operations.
Call to Action 7, asks us to develop strategies to eliminate educational and employment gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians. This call speaks directly to the work we do at Stream Source every day: helping under-represented group connect with opportunities that empower them and their communities.
Call to Action 92, challenges the corporate sector to adopt the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as a reconciliation framework, ensuring that Indigenous peoples have equitable access to jobs, training, and education, and that corporations engage in meaningful consultation with Indigenous communities before moving forward with economic projects.
These calls highlight a shared responsibility. It’s not just up to governments or large corporations — every business, employer, and employee can contribute to creating a more equitable future. Addressing these Calls to Action begins with awareness and a willingness to create environments that uplift and empower Indigenous communities. Here are some ways you can incorporate these actions into your day-to-day work:
For Employers: Start by actively recruiting Indigenous talent and creating roles that support career development within your organization. Collaborate with Indigenous-focused staffing partners like Stream Source to connect with a diverse talent pool. This commitment not only benefits your business, but also contributes to reducing the employment gap.
For Employees: Advocate for inclusivity in your workplace. If you’re in a position to refer or recommend candidates, include Indigenous professionals in your network. Support your company’s diversity initiatives and champion equitable practices.
For Employers: Call to Action 92 emphasizes the importance of obtaining free, prior, and informed consent from Indigenous communities before proceeding with economic projects. Build lasting, respectful relationships with Indigenous communities by involving them in decisions that impact their lands and resources. Show your commitment by supporting community programs that align with their needs and aspirations.
For Employees: Engage in community events and learning opportunities to understand Indigenous perspectives. Whether it's attending workshops or volunteering in community programs, your efforts can build bridges and foster respectful relationships.
For Employers: Offer cultural awareness training to all staff. Include the history and legacy of residential schools, Indigenous law, and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as part of this education. Regular training helps to break down unconscious biases, ensuring that your workplace remains a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
For Employees: Be open to learning about Indigenous histories and cultures. Engage in training sessions and share what you learn with colleagues. Promote an inclusive work culture by respecting different perspectives and encouraging open dialogue.
For Employers: Provide training and development programs tailored to Indigenous communities, helping bridge educational gaps and create pathways to meaningful employment. Supporting scholarships, internships, and mentorship programs can make a real difference in closing the education gap.
For Employees: If you have the opportunity to mentor or support an Indigenous colleague’s development, do so with openness and humility. Sharing your skills and providing encouragement can be a powerful way to contribute to someone's career growth.
For Employers: Offer equitable wages and benefits to Indigenous employees, ensuring that they have the same opportunities for advancement as their non-Indigenous counterparts. Create career pathways that promote long-term success, contributing to economic sustainability in Indigenous communities.
For Employees: If you’re in a leadership or HR role, advocate for equitable pay and career development opportunities within your organization. When discussing benefits or pay structures, consider how they can support diverse needs.
For Employers: Channel a portion of your profits back into Indigenous community initiatives. Stream Source practices this by directly reinvesting in community programs related to sports, education, health, and employment, creating sustainable benefits. By doing this, your company can foster positive social impact and support long-term development in Indigenous communities.
For Employees: Encourage your company to engage in community-focused projects. If your workplace has a social responsibility program, advocate for partnerships with Indigenous organizations and initiatives.
For Employers: Adopt an ongoing learning approach to reconciliation. This could include annual reviews of your company's progress towards reconciliation goals, consultations with Indigenous communities, and updating policies to reflect the principles of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
For Employees: Make a personal commitment to learning. Attend community events, read literature on Indigenous histories and current affairs, and take the time to listen to Indigenous voices. Share your knowledge and advocate for policies that reflect inclusive practices within your workplace.
At Stream Source, we are proud to be part of a larger movement that seeks to bridge the gaps identified in Calls to Action 7 and 92. Our purpose has always been to connect under-represented groups with the best opportunities and to support Indigenous communities in flourishing. By working together, employers, employees, and communities can turn these Calls to Action into tangible change.
Truth & Reconciliation is a journey, and every action counts. Whether it's adopting inclusive hiring practices, providing educational support, or fostering a culturally aware workplace, each step forward brings us closer to an equitable future. We invite you to walk this path with us — not just today, but every day.
If you’re ready to make a difference in your business and your community, let’s connect. Reach out to us at hello@streamsource.ca, and together, let’s take the steps toward meaningful reconciliation.
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Embracing diversity and inclusion is integral to our mission at Agilus. As we continue to champion these principles, we're committed to fostering a workplace where Indigenous perspectives are valued and celebrated. Reach out to connect as we create a more inclusive workforce for ourselves and our partners, and empower Indigenous individuals to thrive.