Empowering Indigenous Communities
Project-Specific Training by Manitoba Construction Sector Council
Winnipeg Indigenous Accord: Advancing Reconciliation Through Action
The Winnipeg Indigenous Accord
This is a guiding framework for organizations, institutions, and individuals committed to meaningful reconciliation with Indigenous communities. This report highlights key themes and actionable steps signatories can take to foster systemic change, promote Indigenous self-determination, and enhance accountability. The Accord aims to create lasting, measurable progress toward equity, inclusion, and mutual respect. The following themes outline critical focus areas and provide a pathway for advancing reconciliation efforts. There are six key themes to explore:
1. Dismantling Barriers: A Commitment to Systemic Change
Organizations must actively dismantle systemic barriers that hinder Indigenous participation and leadership to achieve meaningful reconciliation. This involves fostering culturally safe environments, addressing power imbalances, and promoting Indigenous-led initiatives. Efforts should focus on equitable hiring practices, historical education, and creating inclusive workplaces that reflect the diversity of Indigenous communities.
2. Honouring Autonomy: Advancing Indigenous Self-Determination and Leadership
True reconciliation extends beyond inclusion; it requires recognizing and respecting Indigenous governance, knowledge, and leadership. Organizations must transition from symbolic representation to authentic integration of Indigenous voices in decision-making.
3. Accountability in Action: Progressing the Accord’s Reconciliation Journey
Accountability is essential to measuring the impact of reconciliation efforts. The Accord emphasizes robust metrics, transparent reporting, and reciprocal partnerships to ensure that commitments lead to tangible change.
4. Embracing Indigenous Leadership, Knowledge, and Methodologies
Integrating Indigenous knowledge systems into organizational frameworks is crucial for meaningful collaboration. This includes adopting storytelling as a data methodology, respecting Indigenous data sovereignty, and combining quantitative metrics with narrative depth.
5. Together We Thrive: Co-Creation and Authenticity
Authentic relationships with Indigenous communities are fundamental to reconciliation. This theme highlights the importance of co-creation, prioritizing Indigenous voices in decision-making, and fostering mutual respect. Organizations should shift from transactional interactions to long-term partnerships built on trust and shared goals.
6. Cultivating Understanding and Fostering Educational Growth
Education is a foundational reconciliation pillar, requiring intellectual and emotional engagement. Organizations must prioritize cultural competency training, historical awareness, and self-reflective learning to dismantle biases and create inclusive environments.
For in-depth details, download the report.
Indigenous Training
Manitoba Construction Sector Council delivers Project Specific training in remote Indigenous communities to support community employment on any local upcoming construction projects. Courses are industry-driven to address the skill gaps identified on local construction projects. Students are selected by the community; Instructors are most often Indigenous and wherever possible from the community where training is delivered. Graduates of the micro-credential courses find employment to gain experience and advance their careers to post-secondary education programs. Their stories of success need to be shared to inspire others.
MCSC Framing Course in Barren Lands First Nation - Brochet, Manitoba
Participants from Barren Lands First Nation join the Framers Course to learn basic building skills. In two days a group of ladies build four picnic tables for the community.
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Indigenous Liason
William Kirkness is in charge of opportunities in the Indigenous portfolio.
William Kirkness
Contact MeWilliam works with Indigenous communities to address skill gaps on local construction projects. He coordinates the delivery of training for employment. William bridges the gap between employers and Indigenous workers to improve recruitment and retention practices in remote Manitoba communities.
Indigenous Liason