Conference unites Native, Non-Native business

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The message is clear. Aboriginal First Nations and communities in Canada, and around the world, are actively shaping the size, strength and use of their economic power. The ripple effects of this force are only beginning to be felt.

This message was heard again and again in Toronto by participants in Open For Business: Doing Business With Aboriginal Canada.

The Financial Post's third business-to-business conference drew business leaders from Aboriginal communities in Canada and other countries last month.

Aboriginal communities in Canada are stronger. Their quality of life has improved. They are creating organizations, jobs and investment.

They are making economic development and growth happen in ways consistent with Aboriginal values, conference attendees heard.

As a result, many of Canada's financial institutions and other sources of business capital and expertise are getting yet another wake-up call from Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal leaders alike.

This message is also clear. Those who haven't already done so should get on the plane before they are left sitting at the airport.

The positive experiences of Aboriginal First Nations and communities described

at the conference show that there are many ways they can take control of their lives and create a new future for themselves and their children.

In an interview, Chief Peter D. Quaw, of the Lheit-Lit'en Nation in Northern B.C., who had spoken on his community's experience with community renewal, said:

"Are you or are you not an Aboriginal Nation? If you are, then act like one - not like an Indian Band under the Indian Act."

"As Aboriginal Nations we have a purpose on this earth, and that is to share with our non-Aboriginal brothers and sisters the beliefs and values that are enshrined in our traditional systems handed down to us by the Creator and implemented through our Elders."

In his opening remarks, Conference Chair Patrick Lavelle, Chairman and CEO, Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, said the council expects to announce in a few weeks the appointment of an Aboriginal person as its incoming President.

Lavelle called on Native and non-Native leaders in government and the private sector "...to do something about providing access to capital, education, jobs, and the economic infrastructure to make it happen."

Specifically he cited proposals included in the Liberal Party's "Red Book" commitments:

- Settling land claims, treaty violations, and self-government by Jan. 1, 2000;

- Eliminating the Indian Act and the Department of Indian Affairs by Jan. 1, 2000;

- Creating tax-free opportunity and development zones for Aboriginal communities;

- Establishment of an Aboriginal Trade Commission.

Among the presenters to the morning plenary session were:

- Warren Hannay, CEO, Peace Hills Trust, talked about Edmonton-strategic alliances, co-management, joint ventures, and the business planning and financing options;

Afternoon workshops provided first-hand looks at successful approaches to economic development.

- Katherine Robinson, Nuu-Cha-nulth Economic Development Corporation - Aboriginal-run umbrella group's high-end tourism in an expanding international market;

In his luncheon address, Gatjil Djerrkura, also a senior Elder of the Wanngurri Aboriginal clan in Australia, said Australian and Canadian Aboriginals have much in common.

"Aboriginal Canada and Aboriginal Australia share a common background of past European settlement and influence on their traditional and cultural lifestyles.

"In Australia, this has resulted in the situation where real progress in Aboriginal economic development will only come when self-esteem, economic independence and self-determination are fully restored. 'Restored' is an appropriate word, because Aboriginal people in Australia are a fiercely proud people and very capable of sharing their own destiny.

"A similar situation exists here in Canada and I believe that you, the Canadian First Nations, and theAustralian Aboriginal community can learn a lot from each other."

The conference was financed through Industry Canada's Aboriginal Economic Programs, co-ordinated by the Financial Post Conferences organization and Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, with sponsorship by Air Canada.