Annual Public Lecture in Whitehorse, 2023
This conference is inspired by and shared in memory of Sarah Robinson, Action Canada Fellow 2014/15, whose mission was to foster dialogue among policy-makers on Indigenous histories, reconciliation and action.
To honour Sarah’s legacy, Action Canada committed to launch annual lectures on Reconciliation and Public Policy. In September 2023, we held our third lecture during our study tour to Whitehorse, Yukon.
The focus of this year’s theme was “Self-Determination: A Fundamental Element of Economic Reconciliation.”
We were honored to host distinguished speakers: Victoria B. Fred, Independent Associate Counsel and Justin Ferbey ’07, Deputy Minister and Secretary to the Cabinet of the Executive Council; President and CEO, Yukon Housing. Their insights and expertise added tremendous value to the discussion.
The lecture was delivered by Action Canada and Public Policy Forum in partnership with Indspire: Rivers to Sucess, Yukon University, who hosted this event, and Power Corporation of Canada.
To watch the lecture, please see the video below.
Pathways to Reconciliation
Empowering Indigenous Employment: An Interview with Japman Bajaj ’23
On Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, NewsTalk 1010 engaged in a thought-provoking interview with Japman Bajaj ’23, a prominent advocate for more equitable and inclusive employment and training opportunities for Indigenous People. This interview explores the pressing issue of unemployment within Indigenous communities, which is on average 50% higher than non-Indigenous populations.
The conversation, led by Deb Hutton, underscores the importance of reflecting on the progress we have made and the work that lies ahead in supporting Indigenous communities.
