21 June 2020

Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day. In Canada, June 21st is a day for all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and the outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.

In 2018, we met Martha Manuel – now Manager, Indigenous Relations at New Gold – where she reflected on her experience of balancing her cultural heritage while actively supporting the mining industry. In an article published in the CIM Magazine, as part of its We Are Mining series, Martha reflects on the delicate balance of ensuring that the needs of all the parties she represents are met successfully. Recently, the CIM Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee (DIAC), caught up with Martha to have a conversation around successful cross-cultural engagement.

In Martha’s words, “I’d have to say that it takes the willingness of leadership to evolve to respectful relationships. It takes a lot of time and energy to carry out this work but the team I work with at New Gold and the unique traditional knowledge the Indigenous communities share adds value to the relationships that we’re building. I’d also like to add that the work of the Mining Association of Canada’s (MAC) Aboriginal Affairs Committee, and the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB), complements the work that we’re committed to. Learning is an ongoing experience and as we continue to learn together, especially insofar as understanding the diverse cultures, we’ll continue to work towards a stronger future and inspire others to do the same.

“I’m fortunate to be working with an incredible team within New Gold who are passionate about ensuring mining is carried out responsibly and are respectful of the community’s interests. I encourage everyone to take some time today, Sunday, June 21, to acknowledge the beauty of the land, animals, air and water that surrounds you. We all have a connection to the environment in some way. Enjoy a safe and celebratory Indigenous Peoples Day!”

We couldn’t agree more.

Thank you to mining professionals like Martha who encourage relationship building in the communities where mines operate. On National Indigenous Peoples Day – we are grateful for dialogue that builds.

Through CIM DIAC, we are pleased to be engaging with diverse groups to ensure we continue to represent the diverse tapestry that is the mining industry! We look forward to learning and growing together.

– 2020 DIAC Co-Chairs Theresa Nyabeze & Mohammed Ali

To connect with DIAC to discuss all matters diversity, equity and inclusion, follow them on Twitter @CIMDIAC and on LinkedIn @DIAC-CIM.

About the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee

The purpose of the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Committee (DIAC) is to encourage diversity and inclusion within CIM and the mining industry at large. DIAC is working to meet this goal through objectives that include the encouragement of increased diversity and inclusion within the broader CIM organization, provide guidance to CIM executives and the CIM Council on all things related to diversity and inclusion, and assist CIM in linking the messages around the business case to the industry through its publications, electronic communications and conference and outreach programs.  

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