Reflecting On Our 2023 Indigenous Initiatives

December 11, 2023
FWS employees wearing orange shirts posing in front of FWS Winnipeg office

Our dedication to fostering meaningful relationships, building cultural awareness as well as contributing to truth and reconciliation has been at the forefront of our endeavours. As we bid farewell to 2023, it’s time to reflect on some of our Indigenous programs and activities that have shaped our corporate identity and enhanced the inclusivity of our workplace.

Strengthening Indigenous Relations

This year, the Progressive Aboriginal Relations (PAR) Program has continued to be a cornerstone of our Indigenous engagement efforts. This certification program serves as a beacon, signaling to Indigenous communities that we are not just a company but a dependable partner. We consistently reaffirmed our commitment to being good business partners, creating a great workplace and dedicating ourselves to the prosperity of Indigenous communities.

Empowering Our Team

In May, our team members participated in an Indigenous Awareness Training session. This initiative aimed to broaden our understanding of the rich heritage, history and traditions of the Indigenous communities we collaborate with. Through workshops, discussions and activities, our team gained insights into the challenges faced by Indigenous peoples. By actively embracing diversity and deepening our knowledge of Indigenous cultures, we fortified our commitment to creating a culture of inclusivity and respect.

Commemorating Truth and Reconciliation

On September 29, we organized a commemorative walk for Orange Shirt Day – an event that proved to be a meaningful and reflective experience for all participants. As the participants traversed the path, they found moments for quiet reflection and opportunities to engage in respectful dialogue, sharing their insights along the way. This walk serves as a perpetual reminder of our collective responsibility to address the intergenerational trauma wrought by the residential school system. It reinforced our commitment to confronting the past while working together for a future built on understanding and reconciliation.

In conclusion, 2023 has been a remarkable chapter in our ongoing commitment to Indigenous relations. Through our PAR Program, Indigenous Awareness Training and the Orange Shirt Day Walk, we have not only made significant strides but have also left lasting impressions in our journey towards inclusivity and reconciliation. As we look ahead, we remain steadfast in our dedication to the betterment of Indigenous communities and our shared future.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our Indigenous initiatives, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We welcome your inquiries and are here to provide you with more information and insights into our commitment to fostering meaningful relationships and supporting Indigenous communities.

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