Indigenous communities
The concerns and priorities of Indigenous communities matter to us
We value maintaining positive relationships with Indigenous communities near our operations and creating long-term economic and social value through our activities.
Canadian businesses have a critical role in reconciliation. Forming meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities sparks opportunity for stronger economies. We recognize the legal and constitutional rights of Indigenous Peoples in Canada and work with Indigenous communities in a manner that respects those rights.
Our approach
From the beginning to the end of our projects, we find opportunities to generate value and reduce impacts. We engage early and often with Indigenous communities, with site visits and dedicated resources to address concerns. Our focus is:
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- Proactive engagement: engaging early reduces impacts and ensures community feedback is incorporated into our projects.
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- Employment and contracting: creating local employment opportunities and business opportunities supports economic inclusion for Indigenous communities.
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- Indigenous awareness training: promoting awareness and education of Indigenous culture and history with our people, including the impact of residential schools.
Celebrating Indigenous culture
Honouring the rich and diverse cultures of Indigenous Peoples in Canada
As Canadians, we acknowledge the importance of building strong relationships with Indigenous Peoples and communities, and continuing to find opportunities for partnership, growth, and learning. From engaging with communities to increasing our awareness of Indigenous history and culture, there are many actions we can take to positively contribute to a bright future.
Our employees recognize significant historical days for Indigenous Peoples in Canada, such as National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21), and National Day of Truth and Reconciliation (September 30).
On an annual basis, we share learning resources and offer awareness training on rich and diverse cultures of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Through sponsorship, we support community events through Indigenous friendship centers in Fort St. John, Dawson Creek, and Grande Prairie.
Our partnerships
Every community has unique goals and interests. Working with elected leadership and elders, we can support community priorities. We help create safer and healthier communities through our contributions. Investing in education and mental health is also a core priority for us.
Indspire
By supporting Indspire’s Building Brighter Futures: Bursaries, Scholarships and Awards program, the ARC Resources Indigenous Scholarship award was established. This award is designed to support individuals from communities in and around ARC’s operations in both Alberta and BC, to bolster skills and enable future employment in the energy sector.
Youth Indigenous Hockey Camps
In partnership with other local businesses, ARC is pleased to contribute to hockey camps that offer more than 70 Indigenous youth ages 7 to 16, the opportunity to hit the ice and learn to play hockey. Camps are offered to nearby Indigenous Communities, with support through employee volunteerism, meals, and donations-in-kind for participants. Hear about participants experience.
