Honouring National Indigenous History Month
In Canada, June is National Indigenous History Month and June 21 is National Indigenous Peoples Day. These observances are a time for all to recognize and celebrate the rich history, heritage, resilience and diversity of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples.
Around the world, forests hold profound spiritual, cultural, social, economic and environmental significance for Indigenous Peoples, including in Canada where we actively engage with over 100 Indigenous governments, communities and organizations to foster long-term relationships that contribute to sustainable forest management, economic prosperity and community well-being.
Throughout June, a number of West Fraser locations are hosting events with the Indigenous communities around which they live and work.
This includes Slave Lake Veneer, which raised a Plains Cree tipi as a sign of respect and an acknowledgment of the traditional territories of the local Treaty Eight First Nations, the Sawridge First Nation and the Métis communities that West Fraser operates in.
West Fraser was honoured to once again host representatives from Métis Nation of Alberta District 21, including the Executive Director, Brenda Genaille. The Plains Cree tipi was set up according to protocol under the guidance of local knowledge keepers, who also shared information about the cultural significance of the tipi and its various elements.
Our annual tipi raising provides another opportunity for us to continue to strengthen our relationships with Indigenous communities by demonstrating our respect and providing a moment to come together to share and learn.
Jed Begin, General Manager, Slave Lake Veneer
To learn more about the company’s approach to Indigenous Relations, go to the Indigenous Relations section of our website.
