A new book by an Indigenous leader and a resource industry executive lays-out their vision for a new way forward: one in which the resource sector plays a meaningful role in advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
Weaving two worlds, written by K’ómoks First Nation member and vice-president of Indigenous and stakeholder engagement at Falkirk Environmental Consultants, Christy Smith, and the founding partner and co-chair of Falkirk and past president and CEO of the Mining Association of B.C., Michael McPhie, is a call for change, as the resource sector’s relationship with Indigenous people has often been marked by protests, distrust, and anger.
Smith and McPhie offer their two voices of two worlds—Indigenous and non-Indigenous—to deliver insights, knowledge and guidance from their decades of work between resources companies and Indigenous communities.
“Since being involved in this practice area, I have recognized that those who build sincere relationships and gain trust have better success, while those who come in and want to check a box may as well walk away,” Smith said.
The authors look to case studies and personal stories to offer practical skills and tips on how to build meaningful, mutually productive relationships with Indigenous Peoples, from initial consultation to project planning and development. The book also explains how the resource sector can play a meaningful role in advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, as part of a sustainable future.
“Having served at almost level within the resource industry, I have seen that the success, or lack thereof, of a project, policy, or initiative, always comes down to people and how they are treated and involved in decisions that affect them,” McPhie said.
Released earlier this month, Weaving two worlds is on sale now and .
