JUNE 21, 2024

Celebrating One Year of Reconciliation

June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day and the month of June is National Indigenous Peoples Month, and represents the time when we get to reflect, celebrate, and acknowledge the history and contributions of Indigenous peoples.

June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day and the month of June is National Indigenous Peoples Month, and represents the time when we get to reflect, celebrate, and acknowledge the history and contributions of Indigenous Peoples.

We are grateful for the lands and waters that our business relies upon, and for Indigenous Peoples’ stewardship of the land since time immemorial. Tridel’s offices and many of our communities are situated on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabeg, Wendat, Chippewa, and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. We are also on Treaty 13 territory with the Mississaugas of the Credit. We acknowledge that the Greater Toronto Area is home to many diverse nations including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples.

Throughout our 90-year history, we’ve learned that we have a responsibility to create communities where everyone can thrive and feel a sense of belonging. We’re honoured to have the opportunity to make an impact in the communities where we build.

In June 2023, we launched our first-ever Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). We created the Plan to demonstrate our commitment to honouring the history and legacy of Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories, increasing awareness, and cultivating an environment where Indigenous talent can succeed. With three foundational pillars—People, Collaboration, and Procurement—we strive to foster deeper connections with Indigenous communities and advance opportunities for Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous-owned businesses. Below, we highlight some of our accomplishments to date under each of these pillars.

People

Tridel is committed to conducting business in a way that prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion. This includes creating an environment where employees can enhance their cultural understanding and contribute to reconciliation. We will reflect on current processes, practices, as well as employment and training opportunities to evolve Indigenous inclusion in the workplace.

Highlights for the year:

- RAP updates continue to be provided on a monthly basis to the DEI Executive Sponsor

- Hosted a “Blanket Exercise” activity in acknowledgement of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with facilitator Pamala Agawa, Anishinaabe-kwe from Batchewana First Nation

- Hosted a drumming workshop with facilitator Veronica Johnny, Cree/Dene, of IndigenEd for employees in celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day

- Created a Land Acknowledgement Guidance document for use at company events, offices, communities

- Aligned with three Indigenous-led organizations: Miziwe Biik, Council Fire, and the Urban Indigenous Education Centre, to promote opportunities for employment with the Tridel Group and within our industry

Collaboration

As a company built on strong values, Tridel understands the importance of community. We believe there are mutually beneficial opportunities to create and evolve greater relationships with Indigenous peoples. We commit to focusing on bringing opportunities to individuals and communities to enhance collaboration and advance reconciliation.

Highlights for the year:

- Attended the Urban Indigenous Education Centre’s (UIEC) annual First Nations, Métis and Inuit Student Post-Secondary Opportunities Gathering alongside the BOLT Foundation

- Will welcome two Indigenous youth from UIEC in summer 2024 for Indigenous Summer Leadership program to intern at Tridel’s Head Office

- Developed relationship with Council Fire including leading the consultation as part of the new Regent Park Phase 4 and 5 Sales Centre landscape design, and SpeakOut with the BOLT Foundation on opportunities in construction for youth

- Registered Employer as part of Miziwe Biik Job Board – sharing open opportunities within the Tridel Group and our network

- Continued support of the IndSpire Building Brighter Futures Scholarship Program

Procurement

Tridel is committed to creating economic opportunities for Indigenous businesses by prioritizing qualified, diverse vendors and providing specialized support to help build their capacity to create economic prosperity and value in communities.

Highlights for the year:

- Deltera Inc. joined the Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council (CAMSC) and participated in first industry-specific virtual networking event

- Procured more than $50,000 in services and goods from Indigenous-owned businesses including artwork, consulting services, catering, and graphic design

We are proud to report on our achievements in strengthening our relationships with Indigenous communities and organizations. As community builders, we will continue to make progress toward Truth and Reconciliation. We encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the significance of this month and on National Indigenous Peoples Day, and to continue your own personal journey towards understanding your part in reconciliation.