EY Canada is honoured to share it has been awarded the Silver level certification in the Progressive Aboriginal Relations (PAR) program from the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB). The designation, which awards organizations promoting reconciliation through its engagement with Indigenous businesses and community relationships, is a proud milestone in the firm’s ongoing commitment to Indigenous reconciliation.
“As a proud member of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB), we’re committed to empowering Canadian Indigenous businesses to secure a brighter future and help deliver transformative outcomes for their communities,” said Jad Shimaly, EY Canada Chair/CEO and Chief Inclusiveness Officer. “This certification is a testament to our ongoing commitment to leading with purpose by breaking down barriers and fostering equitable access to jobs, training, education and economic opportunities for Indigenous Peoples.”
As a national organization, EY Canada continues to develop relationships with Indigenous Peoples across the country and seeks ongoing ways to support the communities in which it lives and works. In its commitment to fostering positive change, the firm also looks inward, engaging its own employees in initiatives that promote understanding, respect, and collaboration with Indigenous Peoples. In June 2021, it launched the EY Indigenous Professionals Council (IPC). This team actively collaborates with firm leadership, engages with Indigenous entities, communities and leaders, to foster open dialogue to leverage its expertise and hands-on support in addressing issues and creating a better future together, one person and one community at a time.
In December 2022, it launched its official Indigenous Awareness Training program — developed in collaboration with Indigenous Corporate Training — making it available to all EY personnel as well as a leadership prerequisite. The self-directed, 90-minute online program provides education on Indigenous history and beliefs, and legislation governing Indigenous relations.
In 2022, we also introduced the EY Entrepreneurs Access Network, a program designed to support Black and Indigenous entrepreneurs by providing a one-year educational curriculum, coaching, and networking opportunities. Each participant is paired with an EY Relationship Ambassador to guide them through their growth journey, addressing disparity gaps.
“I admire the dedication of EY Canada to further economic growth and opportunities for Indigenous business,” says Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business President & CEO, Tabatha Bull. “Each year we are proud to announce a growing number of companies committed to creating positive, meaningful relationships with Indigenous businesses and communities. Participating in the PAR program requires action and accountability and is a step forward in economic reconciliation.”
Since its inception in 2001, PAR has maintained its position as the foremost corporate social responsibility program, with a distinct focus on Indigenous relations. PAR's certification program instils a strong sense of confidence in communities due to its foundation on independent third-party validation of company reports, and the ultimate company rating is decided by a panel of Indigenous business professionals.
To learn more about our ongoing commitment to Indigenous reconciliation, visit: https://www.ey.com/en_ca/corporate-responsibility/equity/indigenous-community-support
