09/30/2025
Our Indigenous Together Employee Resource Group (INTO) recently hosted a powerful virtual session with Chief Willie Sellars of Williams Lake First Nation. Chief Willie spoke about the legacy of residential schools in Canada, focusing on St. Joseph’s Mission near Williams Lake, BC, and shared what reconciliation and healing look like for his community today.
“As we go down this path of reconciliation, acknowledgement to the legacy and history of residential schools in our country, we start seeing the empowerment of our of our survivors and our elders to tell their story,” said Chief Willie Sellars.
This conversation was deeply connected to the themes explored in the acclaimed documentary Sugarcane Film, in which Chief Willie is featured. The film, nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the Academy Awards, continues to spark important conversations across the country.
The session also highlighted Finning Canada’s growing relationship with Williams Lake First Nation. For the second year in a row, Finning and WLFN signed an economic agreement—marking a meaningful milestone in economic reconciliation. The partnership focuses on collaboration in mining, forestry, and construction projects within the WLFN Stewardship Area.
"This partnership shows what’s possible when companies take meaningful steps toward economic reconciliation—not just through words, but through action and shared decision-making," said Chief Willie Sellars.
Cody Broster, Head of Coals and Metals Mining at Finning Canada, added, "We recognize that strong partnerships with Indigenous communities are essential for building a sustainable future."
Thank you to everyone who joined us to learn, reflect, and support reconciliation.
