National Indigenous Peoples Day event makes meaningful impact
The rain held off and the light of learning shined bright last Friday at our Stream-Flo Group of Companies Centre of Excellence campus in Edmonton.
Ahead of National Indigenous Peoples Day, roughly 75 staff members turned out for the chance to listen and learn from Cree language advocate Audrey Thomas and Cree author Jules Thomas.
The mother and son duo also performed a smudging ceremony, inviting our employees to participate as well.
“It was an excellent learning and sharing experience to be a part of,” said Michelle McIsaac. The Stream-Flo project administrator, along with Stream-Flo Reman/CP Coordinator Robin Sawers, were the ones who spearheaded the inaugural and, by all accounts, transformational event for our organization.
Michelle McIsaac takes part in the smudging ceremony on Friday, Jun. 20 in Edmonton. (Redd Francisco)
“To see all the pieces come together the day of was truly heart expanding,” continued McIsaac. “Being such a diverse company, not only from having operations all over the globe but the diversity of our people — we hope this is just the beginning of sharing and learning more about the people who make up our Stream-Flo Group of Companies and the places our offices occupy.”
Addressing our staff, both Audrey and Jules were candid and forthcoming about their own personal struggles.
They pointed to the generational trauma so many of Canada’s Indigenous population has had to contend with as a result of the systemic and institutionalized racism they have endured since Confederation.
With their openness and vulnerability, the Thomases ensured the event was one that was both meaningful, and enlightening.
Jules Thomas, right, addresses the crowd during the National Indigenous Peoples Day ceremony with his mother Audrey Thomas beside him. (Redd Francisco)
Shortly after, Jules took to Facebook and posted the following.
“We had an amazing time, and want to give a big thank you to the staff, the company, and also Michelle and Robin for organizing today’s event,” wrote the Cree author.
For Master Flo General Manager Matt Gruenenwald, he said the event offered a respectful introduction to a significant Indigenous tradition in Canada, and that he came away with a better understanding of its cultural significance and why it continues to hold meaning within Indigenous communities today.
“Opportunities like this reinforce the importance of ongoing learning and awareness around Indigenous history and practices,” reflected Gruenenwald. “They create space for dialogue, help build context, and support a more informed and inclusive workplace. When we participate in these moments, it signals to our teams that this kind of engagement is valued.“
Valued, and deeply appreciated.
As an organization, we look forward to further valuable opportunities and moments of learning such as what the Thomases were gracious enough to provide our group.
For it is through listening and learning that we take the first meaningful steps toward reconciliation.
