On May 22nd, 2024, Gibson unveiled its first Legacy Space at its Calgary Headquarters in collaboration with the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund!
Inspired by Chanie’s story and Gord’s call to build a better Canada, the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund aims to build cultural understanding and create a path toward reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Their goal is to improve the lives of Indigenous people by building awareness, education, and connections between all peoples in Canada.
Gibson partnered with Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund to bring Legacy Spaces to our team. Legacy Spaces partners receive dedicated support, exclusive resources, and training opportunities to empower them in taking reconciliACTION as a team throughout the year, both within their organization and surrounding communities.
Each unique Legacy Space provides an opportunity to bring Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples together to build connections and understanding while ensuring that Indigenous perspectives are represented and celebrated in the workplace.
A Recap of the Unveiling
The morning began with a land acknowledgment from Sean Wilson, Senior Vice President, Chief Administrative and Sustainability Officer, followed by an opening prayer and smudge from Elder Jackie Bromley. Next, Steve Spaulding, President & CEO, spoke on the significance of the Legacy Space and our time together within it.
Callie Ann Massee, Indigenous Relations Analyst, and Colin Anton, Indigenous Relations Lead, shared insights on the journey of completing the Legacy Space. They highlighted the kindness, guidance, and opportunities to learn from Elder Bromley, Alice Kaquitts, Diane Meguinis, Edmee Comstock, Cheryle Chagnon-Greyeyes, Yvonne Jobin, and Bruce Dumont. Sarah Midanik, President & CEO of The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund, also shared her thoughts on the importance of the space and continuous reconciliACTIONS
We then heard from the artists who contributed to building our Legacy Space, including room installation artist Glenna Cardinal, beadwork artist Tania Big Plume, pottery artist Jody Swanson and digital artist Kristy North Peigan.
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the opening of the Legacy Space! Your presence and encouragement made this event truly special and meaningful. We deeply appreciate the contributions of all the artists, elders, and community members who helped bring this vision to life, and we look forward to continuing our journey of learning, growth, and reconciliation together.
Take a Look At the Legacy Spaces!
