As an organization that conducts science and research, CCSA is dedicated to learning. As a learning organization, we are humbled by how much more we need to learn and understand from First Nations, Métis and Inuit. We hope that through our partnerships and engagement with Indigenous organizations that what we learn can help improve the work we produce.
CCSA is committed to organization-wide learning about racism, colonization and injustices experienced by Indigenous people as well as about reconciliation, accessibility, equity and inclusion.
Through education; guidance from Indigenous partners, Elders and Traditional Knowledge Keepers; and increased awareness, we strive to do better. As a start to our organization’s journey, CCSA has begun several initiatives to work toward truth and reconciliation as well as equity, diversity and inclusion.
Staff Education and Training
CCSA’s goal is to increase our staff’s understanding of the historical and contemporary colonial legacies and practices, and their collective impact on First Nations, Métis and Inuit people and their communities on the land we call Canada.
In consulting with Indigenous advisers, we host an ongoing series of Indigenous Gatherings for staff. These gatherings feature presentations from First Nations, Métis and Inuit speakers and include group activities. These events allow our staff to reflect and then identify actions for reconciliation for themselves and the organization.
Our Indigenous advisers have recommended resources to share with our staff. These include books by Indigenous authors, as well as Indigenous films, websites and learning modules. We hope that these resources will support staff who have personally committed to learning more about racism, colonization, injustices, reconciliation, accessibility, equity and inclusion. We believe this will foster a safe, positive environment at our workplace where such conversations are encouraged and honest.
