Telus Releases its 2021 Reconciliation and Indigenous Connectivity Report

Telus has today released its 2021 Reconciliation and Indigenous Connectivity Report, which includes the company’s first-ever Indigenous reconciliation action plan, making it the first Canadian tech firm to commit to such a plan.

In 2021, Telus connected 48 Indigenous lands to its advanced broadband networks and 382 Indigenous lands to 5G. The company says it has developed its Indigenous reconciliation strategy and Indigenous reconciliation action plan through “an inclusive, culturally relevant process.”

Telus hosted two rounds of engagement over 18 sessions with Indigenous leaders, Elders, subject matter experts, and Indigenous team members from across its serving areas.

“We take our responsibility very seriously, and we are becoming more intentional in our commitments to reconciliation through both strong relationships and supporting the recommendations of Indigenous-led frameworks for reconciliation including Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 10 Principles of Reconciliation and the 94 Calls to Action, United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Reclaiming Power and Place,” said Telus CFO Tony Geheran.

Telus’ Indigenous reconciliation action plan targets the following in short-term:

• Connectivity: Connecting an additional 20 communities to broadband by 2023
• Enabling social outcomes: Launching the $1 million Telus Indigenous Communities Fund, which provides grants of up to $50,000 to Indigenous-led organizations focused on mental health and well-being, language and cultural revitalization, access to education, and/or community building
• Cultural responsiveness & relationships: Working with Indigenous educators to develop and deliver e-learning material and ensuring learning opportunities and resources are available and accessible to Telus team members
• Economic reconciliation: Achieving Bronze Progressive Aboriginal Relations status by demonstrating sustained leadership in our commitment to working with Indigenous businesses and prosperity in Indigenous communities by 2024

The full report can be found on the Telus website.