Honouring National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
West Fraser is active with more than 100 Indigenous governments, communities and organizations. For decades, the company has worked to build and nurture respectful, long-term partnerships that foster economic prosperity and a sustainable forest industry.
On September 30, Canadians observed the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR), a day to reflect on the legacy of residential schools and to honour the children and Survivors, their families and their communities.
Across West Fraser’s Canadian operations, employees marked the day in ways that reflected local traditions and ties to the community. In Quesnel, they joined the observance at Lhtako Dene Park, hosted by the Lhtako Dené Nation, which included a smudging, traditional dancing and a water ceremony on the Fraser River. Slave Lake Veneer team members walked alongside the Sawridge First Nation, the Friendship Centre and community members to honour Survivors.
At Blue Ridge, employees were honoured to take part in a smudging ceremony led by the Whitecourt Indigenous Friends Society followed by a community barbecue that brought together employees, local leaders and guests. Teams in Sundre and Chambord gathered in orange “Every Child Matters” shirts, standing together in support and remembrance, while in Toronto, office team members reflected with remarks and a showing of the Lake Babine and West Fraser partnership video.
These are just some of the ways West Fraser teams across Canada marked the day, each in their own way reflecting the importance of remembrance, learning and connection.
Committed to meaningful Indigenous Relations
For generations, West Fraser has worked to nurture respectful, long-term relationships with Indigenous governments, communities and organizations. Today, we engage with more than 100 Indigenous partners across our operations, focused on shared goals for sustainable forest management and economic development.
“West Fraser is also working to mark a new era of partnership, mutual respect and economic opportunities,” said Keith Carter, Senior Vice-President, Western Canada. “Our recent agreement with the Lake Babine First Nation and several joint development agreements with B.C. First Nations, as well as Good Relations Agreements with numerous Alberta First Nations, represents meaningful progress. Together we are redefining what's possible, not just for the forest sector, but for communities.”
We also continue to advance our participation in the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business’s PAIR (Partnership Accreditation in Indigenous Relations) program. This work, and the contributions of employees across our Canadian operations, reflects a company-wide commitment to listening, learning and taking meaningful action to strengthen collaboration and deepen understanding.
