National Day for Truth & Reconciliation ERG Spotlight
Meet Marcia Forsyth from the Indigenous Employees Network & Allies Employee Resource Group!
Executive Administrative Assistant
Western Financial Group Head Office
High River, AB
Q. What does National Day for Truth and Reconciliation mean to you?
For me, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an indication that we, as a country and as members of communities throughout it, are taking responsibility for our historical actions and the devastating effects they have had on so many individuals, families, and communities.
It’s also a chance to celebrate our Indigenous Peoples and their traditions and cultures.
Q. What made you join the Indigenous ERG? What’s your favorite thing about working with this group of individuals at Western?
I joined the Indigenous ERG to learn and to deliberately support Truth and Reconciliation because I grew up in Saskatchewan during the time when residential schools were active, and I had no idea they existed.
Also, someone close to me is of Cree descent and their family has been terribly affected by generations of residential schooling. I want to stand with them for healing, for everyone who experienced abuse and loss of cultural identity and family relationships. And to remember those who didn’t come home.
My favorite thing about working with the folks in this ERG is hearing and sharing personal stories and observations because they mean something, and they stick with me.
Q. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada identifies workplace education as one of the tangible solutions toward reconciliation. What kind of workplace education have you engaged in?
I am grateful to have been allowed to take part in different workshops, webinars, and educational opportunities pertaining to Indigenous culture, history, and current teachings and also to see that more and more people are engaging in them.
Q. How can Western show support for the Indigenous Employees Network and Allies ERG and/or the Indigenous community?
I believe the startup of this ERG is just the beginning of more and more awareness amongst the people of Western Financial Group and that this awareness will bring a desire to become allies and friends with all people and that continuing to encourage it is Western’s best form of support.
