The Grand Cercle économique is an opportunity for non-native business communities to create links that could lead to the realization of significant economic projects with indigenous peoples. It is also a gesture of rapprochement between two populations living in the same territory, Quebec. Obviously, this meeting is also the starting point of a movement that promotes greater economic integration of indigenous peoples.

During the discussions that took place on the first day, many themes were addressed, including the involvement of women in the economy, the protection of the territory, responsible entrepreneurship and alliances in the business community.

Full participation

It was Ghislain Picard, Chief of the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec and Labrador , who officially launched the discussions: “What we will talk about during the Great Circle must have benefits for all the populations of our communities. It is not an end in itself, but the beginning of a movement for the full participation of Indigenous peoples in the Quebec economy. Of course, there has been progress and success stories. We must draw inspiration from them to multiply others.

This is exactly what we wanted to do with the Indian Act, the creation of reserves and all the colonial policies that have fueled the ideology of governments up until now. It is clear that assimilation policies have failed. Our peoples are still standing, despite the many wounds caused by the dark chapters of Canadian history. Where they have succeeded is in the destruction of our economies and in the ability to ensure autonomous development. Today, I see that the women of our nations are taking back their place and that young people are more determined than ever to chart a future filled with pride. To achieve this, we need a society ready to open up to us.

The involvement of indigenous women

In a morning panel, Pekuakamiulnuatsh Takuhikan community leader Gilbert Dominique said women must now take their place in economic plans. “It’s for the good of our communities. It suggests greater involvement, better collaboration and better management of the various aspects of our economy. I agree, it’s not easy. In fact, the challenge is significant. But the wisdom, experience and different approach of women are essential to the balance of our economies.”

In addition to the urgency of involving women, Gilbert Dominique stressed the need to break old habits acquired over the decades. “We have been confined to a 15-square-kilometre reserve. It is impossible to ensure a healthy economy. We want to be part of Quebec’s economic development, because it will support our families.”

"But, it must be in respect of our values, our aspirations and our cultural and social issues. Too often, we are excluded from decisions. Too often, we are considered as pressure organizations. There are two nations that coexist on the territory. We must work together, the First Nations and the Quebec Nation. We must demonstrate boldness and innovation. We must abandon the approach of colonization."

Protection of the territory

In another panel that brought together three First Nations chiefs, they stressed that protecting the territory is at the heart of their concerns regarding economic development.

“I have always had strong priorities regarding economic issues in Indigenous communities,” said RoseAnne Archibald, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations and Indigenous Entrepreneurs. “But the basis of all heritage, of all wealth, is the territory. It is very important in the economy. The inherent rights of Indigenous peoples must be respected by the governments of Quebec and Canada. I am thinking of water and the forest. (…) We do not always honour the Earth and its resources.”

The same story from Grand Chief Kahsennehawe Sky-Deer of the Mohawk Council of Kahnawá:ke: “Indigenous people must be considered as partners by non-Indigenous people. We must achieve economic reconciliation between the two peoples while respecting the territory. We must find the right partnerships, those that will respect the Indigenous spirit. Fortunately, people have a new attitude, I believe. We are no longer the Indian problem. We can be players in the Quebec economy. The future seems brighter…”

“When we talk about economic development, we have to respect the criteria that allow us to define what protection of the territory is,” added Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty of the Grand Council of the Crees. “Also, young people have many more tools and skills than we did. Our young people must participate in the industry and then share their knowledge within our communities. We already have a portfolio of successful projects. I am thinking of alliances with companies in the mining and fisheries sectors. One thing is certain: we must focus on sustainable development and social acceptability.”

Business alliances

A few hours later, Indigenous entrepreneur Mélanie Paul – who is president of Inukshuk Synergie, Akua Nature and co-founder of Mocassins et talons hauts – argued that building bridges between the two nations of Quebec is possible, and even beneficial for both sides. “My businesses are based on business models that bring together the strengths of each. That’s the key to success. We have to be open to others. Thus, Mocassins et talons hauts will benefit from alliances. With the help of businesswoman Danièle Henkel, this company is committed to creating networks between Indigenous and non-Indigenous women. We want to promote the great things that are being done in the First Nations by putting women at the forefront.”

“We must take advantage of the holistic approach of the First Nations: the values of inclusion, communitarianism, sharing, mutual aid and partnership. This is what makes Ms. Henkel and Evol (a forward-thinking economic development organization) particularly interested in this project. Their support gives us the wind in our wings to take off! Today, we have everything we need in Quebec to build a bright future together.”