We are halfway through our series; “Ten things to NOT say to Indigenous employees and colleagues.” The response has been validating in hearing how many of us share similar feelings regarding our experiences. Much of the feedback has affirmed how people sometimes sincerely do not know they’re saying inappropriate things. As a result, here are the questions which have emerged for me; What can be done to close those gaps in our understanding of history and culture which stretches back thousands of years? Additionally, how can we teach respectful relationships? The first step, in my opinion, is recognizing the problem. With this in mind, here is our next installment of “Ten things NOT to say to Indigenous employees and colleagues.”
- “Would you be the owner of a new company so we can attract Indigenous contracts?
Some companies and governments have procurement strategies for Indigenous business which are based on majority indigenous ownership. Often, the businesses which take this route are looking for any competitive edge, such as creating an Indigenous-owned enterprise to increase points in a proposal evaluation, or even to acquire contracts on a sole source basis.
Here is how I have seen this situation repeatedly play out; the first step is to find an interested Indigenous person. Regrettably, some non-Indigenous partners believe that ANY Indigenous person will do, and race is the only necessity. So, a new company is created with an Indigenous owner but run by the non-Indigenous partner. We call this “rent-a-feather.” Unfortunately, these companies work to some extent and compete with Indigenous-owned companies who have qualified and engaged Indigenous owner-operators.
Please understand these procurement strategies are, in part, attempting to compensate for the imbalances which have existed for over a century; a system which has not included Indigenous people, suppliers and contractors in projects on, or near, their communities. Whether the business is run by an individual or a team of Indigenous people, these small enterprises are genuine wealth creators in their communities.
These “partnerships” CAN work in the right circumstances. The Indigenous owner is simply trying to get ahead, do some business, and make a living. Like any of us, they can learn and thrive in the right relationship, especially if they have relevant education or experience. In addition, my experience has shown Indigenous companies are far more likely to hire Indigenous people. Doing so utilizes untapped resources, such as people who need the work, and I have observed these employees are more likely to stay with their employer.
- “Do you pay taxes?” Yes, I pay taxes.
It is amazing how pervasive this myth still is. In fact, many non-Indigenous people have told me they assume that I do not pay any taxes. Technically, only First Nations people who live/work on reserve are tax exempt.
I raise this issue because I have asked myself why this assumption continues to come up. Is it simply ignorance or racism? In some circles, it could be a way to position Indigenous people as not contributing to Canadian society in the same way as non-Indigenous people. The treaties and legal cases which provide historical and legal reasons for on-reserve tax exemption tend to get lost in this context. While considered an unfair advantage by many non-indigenous people, it’s vital to keep in mind most First Nations communities disproportionately navigate issues such as poverty, drug abuse, food insecurity, gangs, low employment in their population, and the legacy of residential schools. Clearly, First Nations people do not get “all the breaks.”
Our kind and generous readers have commented on how brave it is to publish a list such as this. I’m grateful my professional experience and position allows me to share these things and be respected for it. It is unsettling, however, when I think about individuals who do not, or cannot, speak up when disturbing situations occur. Regardless, their reasons for not doing so are real, and we as a community must change that. An excellent way to move in the right direction is for us to continue examining our own behaviour, resolve to do better, and perhaps even speak out whenever possible.
Please stay tuned for the final part of our series next week! As well, please keep sharing your stories. They are vital in creating environments which are always striving to be better. Stay warm and safe, everyone!
~ Gary and the team and Bosgoed Projects
