Indigenous Truth and Reconciliation Policy

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Third Rock Consulting recognizes the vibrant and diverse cultures of Indigenous communities and their invaluable contributions to Canada's diversity. We are committed to pursuing truth, acknowledging Indigenous territories, and fostering reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. This commitment aligns with our values of professionalism, accountability, possibility, and transparency, supporting our dedication to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEI&B). 

Our Truth and Reconciliation Policy is guided by key documents: the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's (TRC) Calls to Action, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), and the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls' Calls for Justice. These provide a framework for our reconciliation efforts and inform our commitments and actions. 

Call to Action 92: Adopt UNDRIP as a reconciliation framework, ensuring principles, norms, and standards are integrated into corporate policy and operations involving Indigenous peoples and their lands. Commit to meaningful consultation, respectful relationships, and obtaining free, prior, and informed consent before economic development projects. Ensure equitable access to jobs, training, and education opportunities for Indigenous peoples and provide education for management and staff on Indigenous histories and rights. 

Article 2: Indigenous peoples are equal to all other individuals and free from discrimination.

Article 7.1: Indigenous individuals have rights to life, physical and mental integrity, liberty, and security.

Article 15.1: Indigenous peoples have the right to dignity and diversity of their cultures, traditions, histories, and aspirations.

Article 17.3: Indigenous individuals have the right to non-discriminatory labour conditions.

Article 35: Indigenous peoples can determine the responsibilities of individuals to their communities.

Article 43: The rights recognized herein are the minimum standards for the survival, dignity, and well-being of Indigenous peoples.

Article 46.3: The provisions should be interpreted according to principles of justice, democracy, respect for human rights, equality, non-discrimination, good governance, and good faith.

Call for Justice 15.2: Learn the true history of Canada and Indigenous history in your local area. Celebrate Indigenous Peoples' history, cultures, pride, and diversity, acknowledging the land's historical and present significance.

Call for Justice 15.4: Be a strong ally by actively working to break down barriers and support others.

Call for Justice 15.5: Speak out against racism, sexism, ignorance, homophobia, and transphobia, and encourage others to do the same.

Call for Justice 15.7: Create respectful relationships, supporting and embracing differences with kindness and respect. Learn and apply Indigenous principles of relationship specific to local Nations or communities.

Leadership Accountability

• Establish a team and governance structure to ensure implementation and accountability.
• Include DEI&B goals in annual performance reviews for leaders.
• Engage Indigenous partners for guidance and collaborate with Indigenous communities and organizations.

Data-Driven Approach

• Regularly collect and analyze diversity metrics to inform DEI&B strategies.
• Use data to identify gaps, set targets, and measure progress.

Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)

• Support the formation and operation of ERGs for underrepresented groups.
• Encourage ERGs to participate in decision-making and contribute to DEI&B strategy.

Supplier Diversity

• Increase the diversity of suppliers by engaging with minority-owned, women-owned, and other underrepresented businesses.
• Track and report on supplier diversity efforts.

Cultural Competency Training

• Provide ongoing cultural competency training for all employees.
• Facilitate opportunities for Indigenous-led learning and perspectives through storytelling and cultural events.

Community Engagement and Support

• Support education and economic opportunities for Indigenous youth.
• Develop meaningful collaborations with Indigenous communities to support and sponsor their initiatives and activities.

Employee Engagement: All new employees receive and acknowledge our Truth and Reconciliation Policy upon hiring.

Hiring Practices: Actively seek opportunities to hire Indigenous graduates from Indigenous-focused and Canadian post-secondary institutions.

Economic and Professional Advancement: Promote the advancement of Indigenous employees with equal opportunities, pay, and responsibilities.

Community Involvement: Encourage employees to use Volunteer Time Off for key Indigenous events such as the Annual Women's Memorial March, National Indigenous Peoples Day, Orange Shirt Day, and Reconciliation Canada Events.

Conflict Resolution: Use our safe whistleblower policy to report conflicts between corporate obligations and Indigenous values or interests.

Policy Availability: Maintain and update our Truth and Reconciliation Policy, making it available to all staff and encouraging learning about conscious and unconscious racism and intersectional privileges.

Educational Initiatives: Invite Indigenous Subject Matter Experts to give presentations and host discussions about Indigenous issues.

Representation Metrics: Gather statistics on Indigenous representation in our workforce, benchmark progress against Canadian Census data, and set hiring goals every three years.

Continuous Improvement: Commit to continuous improvement of this policy, reviewing it annually and incorporating feedback from staff, clients, and communities.

At Third Rock Consulting, we are dedicated to fostering an environment where truth and reconciliation are integral to our operations. By embracing these principles, we strive to create a more inclusive, respectful, and equitable workplace for all. This policy reflects our commitment to actively participating in the reconciliation process and supporting the well-being and empowerment of Indigenous communities.