The Conseil de la Nation Atikamekw organized the 5th edition of the Regional Economic Circle, which was held on November 12, 13 and 14. This event brought together key players in the Indigenous and non-Indigenous economy, all of whom are determined to contribute to economic reconciliation.
One thing is certain, this edition marks a turning point for the Grand Economic Circle of Indigenous Peoples and Quebec (GECIPQ). Here are our new records:
- 46 commitments for economic reconciliation. 🙌
- 16 newly committed partners. 🤝
- 300 people participated in the event. 😃
Event proceedings
The event was launched with the opening banquet on November 12! Throughout the 4-course meal, performances and presentations followed one after the other. Atikamekw culture was honoured with the opening song by Jacques Néwashish (actor, filmmaker, painter and sculptor from Wemotaci), as well as by performances by Northern Voice (a drumming group from Wemotaci) and Ivan Boivin-Flamand (guitarist and singer from Manawan).
The day of November 13 began with a presentation on engagement opportunities for economic reconciliation, presented by Waseskon Awashish, GECIPQ Coordinator, and Jinny Thibodeau Rankin, Interim General Director of the FNQLEDC. Two conferences followed: one on Indigenous women’s leadership by Hilda Broomfield Letemplier, President and CEO of Pressure Pipe Steel Fabrication Ltd., and the other on socio-economic parity for Indigenous Peoples by Victoria LaBillois, Mi’gmaq entrepreneur and Quebec Vice-President of the National Indigenous Economic Development Board. Finally, during round tables, participants discussed reconciliation and economic development.
- Important announcement! The Commission de la construction du Québec (CCQ) unveiled its construction industry action plan for the inclusion of First Nations and Inuit at the end of the day. 🚧
As for the day of November 14, it was marked by various panel discussions held simultaneously. The topics discussed concerned access to capital, bioresources, employability and, of course, economic reconciliation. This edition of the circle concluded with the commitment announcements.
To learn more about the Regional Economic Circle of the Conseil de la Nation Atikamekw, read this press release. [French only]
