03 October 2024, Calgary: Bayer Crop Science Canada and the National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food (NCIAF) are thrilled to announce their collaboration to advance reconciliation within Canadian agriculture. As part of this partnership, Bayer is contributing $25,000 in support of the NCIAF to assist in building a connection between agriculture and Indigenous communities.
“Bayer is eager to begin this new relationship with NCIAF, as we strive to contribute towards reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples in Canada,” says Antoine Bernet, Bayer Crop Science Canada Country Division Head. “We look forward to building meaningful relationships with NCIAF, and supporting their creative and innovative projects that empower Indigenous agriculture and support Canada’s food sector.”
The National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food exists to advance reconciliation by building bridges between Indigenous Peoples and communities and the agriculture and food industry. “As the first farmers of this land, NCIAF exists to help our First Nations People rekindle their relationship with agriculture; to grow, harvest and provide healthy food to their families and their communities,” says Kallie Wood, NCIAF president and CEO. “We invite the agriculture and agribusiness industry to collaborate and connect with Indigenous businesses to promote equitable partnerships that prioritize environmental, sustainability, and social impact.”
As part of this new opportunity, Bayer will work with NCIAF to facilitate various activities that continue removing barriers for Indigenous communities, as well as engage Bayer employees in education and reconciliation opportunities. For example, Bayer’s sponsorship of NCIAF is supporting NCIAF’s Community Garden in Saskatchewan, aiming to revitalize Indigenous community involvement in agriculture through a space where they can seed, grow, and harvest their own produce.
“This partnership not only addresses the barriers that have long hindered Indigenous involvement in agriculture, but also acknowledges the generational and systemic trauma that our communities have faced,” says Kallie. “By cultivating these opportunities, we are taking meaningful action to heal and reclaim our relationship with the land, ensuring that Indigenous voices and knowledge thrive in agriculture for generations to come.”
Recognizing National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Today, we wear orange to honour the children who never returned home, as well as the survivors and their families. Every day, we commit to listening, learning, and reflecting on the past. The Canadian agriculture industry has a vital role in advancing reconciliation, and we are dedicated to ongoing education and promoting economic reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. The NCIAF remains focused on raising awareness of past injustices while working toward a future of healing. At Bayer, we are committed to building knowledge and cultural understanding of Canada’s Indigenous communities, their history, and their significant contributions to society through inclusive education and reconciliation opportunities.
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