Canadian corporations encouraged to sign pledge for Indigenous reconciliation

Canadian businesses are being urged to sign a declaration pledging to enhance their partnerships with Indigenous Peoples and communities across the nation. The Corporate Declaration, drafted by several corporations, private entities, and the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, responds to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action No. 92.

This directive calls for the corporate sector to respect the rights of Indigenous Peoples and incorporate them into business practices, including through meaningful consultations and obtaining free, prior, and informed consent before undertaking economic development projects.

The declaration, which was launched on Wednesday, is not a one-time commitment. Signatories pledge to educate themselves on Indigenous histories, collaborate with Indigenous communities, invest in their development, and monitor progress. There is no cost associated with signing the declaration for private-sector organizations.

Victoria Grant, a consultant who helped create the declaration, believes that the corporate sector can set a model of reconciliation for the world. She sees the declaration as a "quilt bringing people together." Stephanie Scott, the executive director of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, emphasizes that private companies hold significant influence over economic participation and workplace culture.

She sees the declaration as a responsible way for companies to act, learn from one another, and demonstrate meaningful progress over time.

Former Truth and Reconciliation Commission co-chairs Wilton Littlechild and Marie Wilson also view the declaration as a positive step forward in Canada's reconciliation journey. They express their interest and appreciation for its launch. Grant hopes that more businesses will sign the declaration and that it will help ensure Indigenous communities do not fall behind as Canada pursues economic growth.