TRC92: Youth Employment
Meaningful employment. Anti-racist workplaces. Thriving youth. There’s a lot we make possible when we work united.
TRC92: Youth Employment
Meaningful employment. Anti-racist workplaces. Thriving youth. There’s a lot we make possible when we work united.
Breaking down barriers, building bridges
What if Winnipeggers from different backgrounds and sectors came together to understand the roots of generational poverty and inequality, and take action to create meaningful change?
That’s what the TRC92: Youth Employment Initiative is all about.
The reality in Winnipeg
Manitoba has the largest gap in employment rates between non-Indigenous and First Nations populations out of all provinces and territories—a symptom of a much deeper problem.
12% of Winnipeg’s population is Indigenous, the highest out of all major Canadian cities.
79.6% of non-Indigenous Manitobans were employed in 2016, compared to 52.4% of Indigenous people living off reserve in Manitoba.
One-third of all youth in Manitoba are Indigenous. Across Canada, Indigenous youth are growing at 4x the rate of any other cohort of youth.
How it works
We’re responsible to live out the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action—including TRC #92, which outlines the role of business in reconciliation.
Our response is a collaborative process guided by Indigenous Elders, young Winnipeggers, government, business leaders, and other community members. Together, we’re tackling the barriers contributing to the significant employment gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous young people.
This journey begins with truth
Building anti-racist and inclusive workplaces
With a deepened understanding of Canada’s complex history, employers can spark positive change in their workplaces. Our goals are to:
- build culturally safe workplaces where Indigenous young people (ages 18-29) have equitable access to jobs, training, and advancement opportunities.
- offer wraparound supports so Indigenous youth can successfully transition into a steady job.
- help youth bridge the financial gap as they seek employment.
A stronger community
TRC92 offers better outcomes for everyone—empowered youth, a more vibrant economy, a healthier city.
By working towards truth and reconciliation, our community is moving closer to reaching our potential.