Reconciliation matters. As Canadians, it ensures we learn from and address historic wrongs, and we work together to co-create a better future.
The NWMO is committed to continuing our Reconciliation journey. We know that working with Indigenous peoples, learning from Indigenous Knowledge, and applying learnings to our work are critical to successfully implementing the long-term management of used nuclear fuel.
The NWMO is committed to contribute to Reconciliation in all its work by co-creating a shared future built on rights, equity and well-being. Our Reconciliation Strategy outlines our approach.
2018
• 85 per cent of NWMO staff received cultural awareness training
• Reconciliation Statement finalized through Indigenous ceremony
2019
• Published Reconciliation Policy
• Developed and delivered Reconciliation training program
• Developed a corporate Reconciliation baseline assessment tool
• Enhanced sponsorships and donations program to include a focus on Reconciliation
• Continued to communicate the NWMO's Reconciliation program with communities involved in the site selection process
• Began assessment of the NWMO's policies and procedures against Reconcilition assessment tool
2020
• Enhanced policies and procedures to address Reconciliation
• Enhanced procurement programs to include an Indigenous strategy
• Assessed corporate Reconciliation baseline and developed a Reconciliation measurement matrix
2021 and beyond
• Develop an Indigenous youth strategy that includes a scholarship program and recruitment strategy
• Continue to enhance Reconciliation training to include unconscious bias training
• Include Indigenous Knowledge in water protection plans
• Apply the Reconciliation assessment tool to regional engagement strategies
• Embed Reconciliation within corporate culture
Each year the NWMO holds an Indigenous Knowledge and Western Science Workshop with Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, Elders, youth, scientists, and industry professionals. The annual workshops are an opportunity to explore the intersections between Indigenous Knowledge and western science, including with respect to water, and how these two knowledge systems could be interwoven effectively and meaningfully into the NWMO’s work.
Oct. 17, 2019, through ceremony, the NWMO issued a Reconciliation Policy that sets out how the organization will contribute to Reconciliation. Under the policy, the NWMO commits to respectful and meaningful engagement with Indigenous peoples and communities, providing cultural awareness and Reconciliation training to staff and contractors, and annually publishing a Reconciliation implementation plan.
In 2019, the NWMO released an eight-part video series – #VoicesOfReconciliation – that provides a deeper look into our Reconciliation journey and why it is so important. You can view the full playlist by clicking the button in the top left-hand corner of the video box below.
On July 18, 2018, the NWMO issued a Reconciliation Statement which reads as follows:
In the context of Reconciliation, the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) recognizes historical wrongs in Canada’s past and the need to create a better future by addressing the challenges of today. The NWMO Council of Elders and Youth speaks of this journey as a new era for humanity – a time of Reconciliation with First Nation, Métis and Inuit peoples.
The NWMO is committed to contribute to Reconciliation in all its work by co-creating a shared future built on rights, equity and well-being. In addition, the NWMO will establish a Reconciliation Policy with an implementation strategy that will be measured annually and publicly reported to contribute to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action.
The Council of Elders and Youth is an advisory body to NWMO management. It provides counsel on the application of Indigenous Knowledge in the implementation of Adaptive Phased Management. In addition, the Council of Elders and Youth provides advice on issues that could enhance the development and maintenance of good relations with Aboriginal communities.
The NWMO recognizes that Indigenous Elders carry the wisdom that connected their peoples to all creation since the Creator placed them here on Turtle Island. The NWMO also acknowledges that Elders possess an understanding of Mother Earth that constitutes traditional science, which enabled their ancestors to live in harmony with nature. The NWMO further respects that Elders are the custodians of traditions, customs, and values of their respective societies, and form a link between the past and the future.
