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Johnston Group "It's an area we want to do well in—we think it's important as an employer, hiring from diverse communities. But, also from a higher purpose perspective. This is who we are, this is who we want to be and these are the principles on which we want to stand," said Angus. That also means taking clear steps to reconciliation, outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's (TRC) report in 2015. There were 94 calls to action. "The thing I liked about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's report is it was about calls to action, not just recommendations. Actions need to be demonstrated. TRC #92, directed at the employer community, is about answering the call and what actions you can take to facilitate reconciliation. The truth as a precursor to reconciliation is important. What is our truth when it comes to how we are engaging with Indigenous communities? First, where are you at and then make a commitment to take action." Angus said Johnston Group has developed partnerships within Indigenous communities and Indigenous-owned businesses like AMIK, which offers several services to companies, including recruitment and retention and cultural sensitivity training. Angus worked with United Way Winnipeg on poverty reduction work, where a consortium of 12 businesses focused on Indigenous youth employment. "We went out and engaged with Indigenous youth and asked, 'What are you looking for in an employer?' 'What kind of careers are you interested in?'" added Angus. "It can't be a token relationship. You need to spend the time and get to know the Indigenous community." "It's the right thing to do and at the end of the day, it's the right business strategy. If you want to attract the best talent, you need to make sure you're creating a workplace that's welcoming to talent, no matter where they come from and understand the diversity and benefits they bring to your organization." WE THINK IT'S IMPORTANT AS AN EMPLOYER, HIRING FROM DIVERSE COMMUNITIES. Courtesy of Johnston Group Y E S ! W I N N I P E G I N V E S T O R S THE WINNIPEG INVESTOR 42 YES! WINNIPEG INVESTORS

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