Today is National Indigenous Peoples Day

In Canada, National Indigenous Peoples Day is a special occasion to learn more about the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences, and histories of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.

As Reconciliation continues to have its necessary and rightful place at the forefront of Canadian conversation and action, SVC stands with all celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day. We have a thirst to deepen our knowledge about the histories of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples, and to grow in the course of that learning. We hope you will join us on this important journey.

The Term ‘Stakeholder’ has an Important History

Within the social value movement, the word ‘stakeholder’ is front and center to our first social value principle.  In essence, the social value movement’s call to ‘Involve Stakeholders’ advocates for deep understanding of the impact we have on all people and the planet, so that we strive to maximize the positive and stand fully accountable to all, for all impact.

But have you ever wondered about its meaning? Historically, it was a gambling term used in the 1700s in Britain – those who had a stake in a wager (a bet). In English-speaking corporate environments today, it is often used to refer to partners. And yet ‘stakeholder’ doesn’t even translate into many languages. In French, ‘parties prenantes’ means ‘parties involved’. In Dutch ‘belanghebbende partijen’ refers to ‘interested parties’, or ‘concerned parties’. Throughout Indigenous history, the term stakeholder has been an offensive term with negative connotations.

In Canadian history, this term referred to the allotment of land to settlers. Settlers were given wooden stakes to claim their plot of land prior to any treaty or land negotiations. In essence, the land was stolen, leading to many of the issues linked to the need for Reconciliation today.

As also recognized by the United Nations through UNDRIP, Indigenous Peoples are not stakeholders; they are Aboriginal rights holders whose rights are protected under the Constitution of Canada. As we advocate for the first Social Value Principle, and a deep accountability for the impact we have on all people and the planet, the terms we use are important. This is a topic of discussion today, and going forward.

Learn more about questionable terms here and here.

Learning about some Inspiring Indigenous Trailblazers

Have you heard about Thelma Chalifoux? Chalifoux was the first Métis woman appointed to the Senate of Canada. She was a strong advocate for women’s and Indigenous rights, Chalifoux was involved in organizations such as the Aboriginal Women’s Business Development Corporation and the Métis Women’s Council. As a senator, she was concerned with a range of issues, including Métis housing, drug company relations with the federal government, and environmental legislation. Chalifoux was also known for her work in the protection of Métis culture. Learn more about Thelma Chalifoux here.

There are so many more inspiring Indigenous trailblazers! Learn about inspiring Indigenous people who have been influential in Canadian society here.

Also take a look at Indigenous people that were just celebrated at the 2022 INDspire awards.

Learn more about Indigenous Peoples, Communities, and History in Canada

• The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls offers health services for survivors, family members, and those affected. Follow this link for more information.
• Take a look at Canada’s “Delivering on Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action”
• Learn more about Indigenous Peoples and communities in Canada