National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Published: Oct 02, 2023
On September 30, Nutrien was honoured to be a part of several National Day for Truth and Reconciliation events in Canada. With a large operating base in Canada, we understand and act on our responsibility to Indigenous reconciliation.
This day honours the children who never returned home and Survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process.
Our focus on this important date was to bear witness to the truth about the intergenerational trauma caused by the residential school system and take action as a part of the reconciliation process.
In Calgary, Alberta we took part in the first public event for the Elders Story Project at Arts Commons. During this powerful event, Elders shared their personal stories about their residential school experiences and their healing journeys, while demonstrating the resilience and strength of Indigenous peoples and the power of their traditional practices.
“I attended an event earlier this year where I had the chance to meet with the Elders who spoke today,” explains Trina Aburto, Manager, Community Relations & Investment. “And I feel so honored to hear their stories. The strength of the participating Elders is remarkable."
Trina has been growing a relationship with the members of the Elders Knowledge Circle (EKC) for several months now. The EKC members are intent on sharing their knowledge and supporting the learning of people like Trina who have become involved in this important project. With a number of Nutrien employees attending the September 30 event, and discussions about the potential for more learning opportunities for our people, we look forward to deepening our relationship with the EKC.
In Saskatoon, Saskatchewan we participated in events at Wanuskewin Heritage Park and the “Every Child Matters” – In Honour of Reconciliation Pow Wow hosted by the Saskatoon Tribal Council. And we walked proudly in the Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation. This walk is an important opportunity for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Saskatoon to answer the TRC Calls to Action by demonstrating their commitment to Reconciliation and to honor residential school Survivors. The significance of "rock your roots" is about celebrating your culture and heritage.
We participate in Rock Your Roots each year as our employees continue to express how powerful walking is as an answer the TRC Calls to Action and working towards an inclusive community.
"Participating in Rock Your Roots has become a family event as we walk in support of my Dad and his siblings as survivors of the Residential School system. It is an opportunity to listen and honour the Survivors while creating a strong sense of community here in Saskatoon,” says Pam Beaudin, Senior Indigenous Relations Manager.
A walk was specifically chosen as many members of the Saskatoon Survivors Circle remember Sunday walks at residential school as times when they would be allowed to see siblings and friends. Walking together has become a symbol of reconciliation and building bridges between cultures.
We also host our Seed Survivor community display to this event each year, which is a fun and interactive way for kids to learn that plants need water, light, healthy soil, and nutrients to survive.