A Unified Voice for Indigenous Construction Companies in Saskatchewan

In an inspiring move towards economic reconciliation, a new group is working diligently to amplify the voices of Indigenous construction companies in Saskatchewan. The Indigenous Owned Construction Companies Group (IOCCG)—recently formed by several members of the Saskatchewan Construction Association (SCA)—aims to create a unified representation for Indigenous-owned construction firms. This initiative not only seeks to enhance the socio-economic impact of construction activities for Indigenous peoples but also addresses long-standing challenges in the procurement process.

The Vision of IOCCG

John Desjarlais, the chairman of the board of directors and general manager for Great Plains Contracting (a partnership between First Nations communities, Points Athabasca, and Graham Construction), articulates the group’s mission succinctly: advocating for economic reconciliation. The IOCCG aims to recognize and cater to the unique requirements of Indigenous-owned companies seeking to engage in the construction sector.

Addressing Procurement Challenges

A significant issue that IOCCG is determined to confront is the convoluted landscape of procurement. Desjarlais notes that Indigenous procurement practices are often informal and lack a solid foundation of best practices. “Everything is anecdotal,” he explains, emphasizing the need for thorough research and a structured approach to develop effective procurement models that truly reflect the aspirations of Indigenous businesses.

The Importance of Equity in Procurement

Desjarlais sheds light on a crucial point: procurement models frequently overlook the equity perspective when it comes to Indigenous businesses. The prevailing sentiment within the industry sometimes breeds a misconception that supporting Indigenous firms equates to favoritism or unfair treatment. "This perspective needs to change," he asserts. The IOCCG aims to reshape conversations around economic reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of equitable practices that enable Indigenous peoples to create wealth and participate genuinely in the marketplace.

Educating the industry about the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada and the setup of Indigenous companies is a key element of IOCCG’s strategy. Desjarlais points out that, until recently, the broader public awareness of the socio-economic challenges faced by Indigenous communities has been limited. "People are just starting to understand Canada’s relationship with Indigenous peoples and the inter-generational issues created by policies of economic exclusion," he states.

Unifying Indigenous Businesses

Another goal of the IOCCG is to foster collaboration among Indigenous construction companies, which have historically faced competition rather than cooperation. Desjarlais notes that previous market structures pushed these firms into narrow niche segments, which hindered their potential for synergy. The vision is clear: create a robust, unified voice that advocates for shared interests and collective progress.

"Unity is essential for making our case stronger," Desjarlais asserts. "If Indigenous construction does better, it impacts the entire industry positively." The construction sector is a vital employer for Indigenous peoples, and elevating their economic status can significantly bolster the resource economy essential for the nation’s financial health.

Collaborative Efforts with Existing Associations

The IOCCG is committed to engaging with various construction associations across the province. They aim not to erode existing structures but rather to collaborate effectively to enhance the representation of Indigenous voices in the industry. Desjarlais emphasizes, "We see Indigenous people as the fastest-growing demographic, and the workforce and skill set must come from this community."

Responsibilities and Mandates of IOCCG

The responsibilities that the IOCCG has adopted include:

• Advocating for best practices specific to Indigenous procurement.
• Promoting meaningful engagement and Indigenous economic development.
• Facilitating career pathways for Indigenous individuals.
• Building the capacity within Indigenous communities to meet the demands of a flourishing economy.

Currently, the group comprises ten different construction companies that are at least 51% Indigenous-owned and operated, including community and tribal-owned organizations. They are actively seeking new members and partners to support their endeavors.

Conclusion

The formation of the Indigenous Owned Construction Companies Group marks a pivotal step towards creating equitable opportunities for Indigenous peoples in Saskatchewan’s construction industry. Through advocating for fair procurement practices, fostering unity among Indigenous businesses, and engaging in educational efforts, IOCCG aims to reshape the economic landscape for Indigenous communities. As this initiative takes shape, it promises not only to benefit Indigenous construction firms but also to strengthen the broader economy, reaffirming the critical role that Indigenous peoples play in Canada’s future.

For more insights and updates on this transformative movement, follow the author on Twitter @RussellReports.