Inspiring A Generation – 2017 North American Indigenous Games

At Goldcorp, we take pride in the relationships and agreements that have been developed by working closely with local indigenous communities in the areas where we operate in Canada. We collaborate with our First Nations partners and community members to support entrepreneurship, increase indigenous employment and business opportunities, implement community initiatives and programs, and incorporate cultural and social practices and considerations into our mine planning and operations.

To further enhance this collaboration, Goldcorp has teamed up with the 2017 North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) as a Platinum Sponsor. The Toronto 2017 NAIG is expected to be the largest sporting and cultural gathering of Indigenous Peoples in North America. With more than 5,000 participants and 2,000 volunteers, thousands of spectators will come to watch 14 sport competitions being across the Greater Toronto Area. Athletes represent all 13 provinces and territories of Canada, as well as up to 13 regions from the United States.

Marcia Trudeau-Bomberry, CEO, Toronto 2017 North American Indigenous Games stated “We are proud to announce Goldcorp as a Platinum Sponsor of the Toronto 2017 North American Indigenous Games. They embody values which align with the spirit of collaboration and community building, and strive to develop strong relationships with Indigenous communities through employment programs, economic contributions and support for health and education initiatives. In this time of reconciliation, it is the responsibility of each of us, to walk forward in the right way and on the right path, in unity, to create a better and brighter future for the next generation.”

Roughly 35 First Nation youth from various communities near Goldcorp’s operations in Canada qualified to compete in a variety of sports including baseball, basketball, wrestling and volleyball. Some will also be joining as traditional dancers. Other NAIG sports include Canoe/Kayak, Golf, Lacrosse, Rifle Shooting, Soccer, Softball and Swimming.  

The events and games will be hosted from July 16 - 23, 2017, on the shared traditional territories of the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation, Mississaugas of Scugog Island, Six Nations of the Grand River, and the Huron-Wendat Nation, with the support of the Métis Nation of Ontario. There are two week-long cultural festivals open to the public, showcasing a variety of Indigenous artists, traditional learning, vendors, food, cultural performances and nightly entertainment.

There is a lot of excitement across Goldcorp about this important initiative to support indigenous youth and sports in Canada. “We believe it’s important to promote traditional and Indigenous sports, support Canada’s indigenous athletes, and emphasize the importance of health, wellness and physical activity amongst young people across the country. Goldcorp is proud to sponsor the North American Indigenous Games, which will showcase Indigenous youth and communities and provide a platform to inspire a new generation of talented athletes,” Brent Bergeron, Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs & Sustainability, Goldcorp.

Best of luck to all the athletes and coaches participating in the 2017 North American Aboriginal Games