Bridging Gaps: Fostering Community and Understanding

Kat Koostachin, VP of Indigenous Relations & Reconciliation, and Brad Duguid, Senior Counsel (and former Ontario Aboriginal Affairs Minister), share their perspectives ahead of the federal budget release. Discover why Indigenous participation is vital for large-scale projects, extending beyond risk management to embrace inclusivity.

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1. Tell us about your background in Indigenous Relations

Kat: Asan Indigenous woman, I am a member of the Mushkegowuk Cree from Attawapiskat First Nation, Ontario. Growing up in a remote northern community, I've encountered the distinct challenges faced by Indigenous Peoples in Canada. This firsthand experience enables me to effectively bridge gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, fostering understanding and collaboration.

Brad: As Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, Energy, and Economic Development I witnessed the challenges facing Indigenous communities and the huge opportunity that economic Indigenous Reconciliation provides. My work at Sussex allows me to utilize those learnings and help others on their Reconciliation Journey with the goal of building strong and prosperous Indigenous communities.  

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2. Tell us more about Sussex’s Indigenous Relations Practice?

Kat: Sussex recognizes the importance off offering this specific practice in our reconciliation process. Through cultural competency training, robust engagement protocols, and integrating Indigenous perspectives, Sussex is committed to fostering respectful, collaborative relationships for equitable engagement and learning.

Brad: Most corporations, projects or organizations in Canada will require an Indigenous Reconciliation strategy to be competitive and succeed.  It’s not just the right thing to do, it is now a competitive imperative. Our team can help organizations through this process and build bridges between Indigenous Communities and the private sector.

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3. Please share your opinion about the importance of Indigenous relations to business leaders for new large-scale projects.

Kat: Indigenous participation is vital for large-scale projects, extending beyond risk management to embrace inclusivity. Recognizing that proposed major projects are situated on Indigenous traditional territory is crucial. Acknowledging and respecting collaboration is vital in garnering Indigenous support, while advocacy and incorporation are pivotal for fostering a reconciliation economy. Embracing Indigenous partnerships not only cultivates support but also drives wealth generation for businesses.

Brad: Infrastructure projects in Canada today are unlikely to proceed without engagement, participation and often some form of equity partnership with Indigenous Communities.  Business leaders who understand and embrace Indigenous Reconciliation will give their organization a competitive advantage. Sussex can provide crucial support for leaders and organizations in this transformational journey.  

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4. What are your expectations of the federal government announcing the equity loan guarantee program in 2024.

Kat: I expect the Indigenous Equity Loan Guarantee Program to offer robust support for major Indigenous business ventures, addressing resource gaps. However, refinement may be necessary, including tools for longevity like methods to generate additional investments and foster wealth creation. Adaptability is crucial to meet Indigenous needs and sustain entrepreneurship and economic growth. While overdue, it marks a significant start.

Brad: The most common barrier to economic participation I hear from Indigenous leaders is lack of capacity to pursue commercial opportunities and lack of capital to invest as an equity partner in projects. This gap stands in the way of real Economic Reconciliation. I hope this program will help close that gap.