Air Canada: Indigenous Initiative

Timeline: February 2022 – March 2023

Project Description:
Many Chief Consulting Ltd. was engaged by Air Canada to develop and implement Indigenous initiatives within the company’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and marketing departments. The 18-month project focused on fostering meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities across Canada, creating educational opportunities, and embedding Indigenous inclusivity into Air Canada’s operations.

Key achievements included the development of Air Canada’s first Indigenous land acknowledgements for in-flight safety videos and online content, as well as strategic engagement with Indigenous Nations in key areas of Air Canada’s operations.

Key Project Tasks:

  • Land Acknowledgements: Created Indigenous land acknowledgements incorporated into the in-flight safety video and the “Ode to Canada” video, highlighting regional acknowledgements.

  • Passenger-Facing Content: Developed Indigenous-focused content for Air Canada’s in-flight entertainment system, showcasing Indigenous Peoples and cultures in key operational regions.

  • Inclusivity Statement: Crafted Air Canada’s first Indigenous Inclusion Statement for the DEI department.

  • Online Learning Modules: Designed and delivered internal educational modules on Indigenous history and truth and reconciliation for staff and leadership.

  • Community Engagement: Facilitated meetings with Indigenous leadership and representatives in Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver, Winnipeg, Halifax, Montreal, and Ottawa to build meaningful relationships.

Outcomes:

  • Air Canada’s first Indigenous land acknowledgement, played before the safety video on domestic flights, now seen by millions of passengers, demonstrating their commitment to respect and awareness of Indigenous territories.

  • Development and delivery of Air Canada’s first internal Indigenous learning module, educating over 40 senior leaders, including the CEO, on Indigenous history and reconciliation.

  • Successful relationship-building with Indigenous Nations in seven key regions, fostering partnerships in areas where Air Canada operates corporate offices.

  • Creation of Air Canada’s Indigenous Inclusion Statement, strengthening the company’s DEI initiatives.

This project exemplifies MCC Ltd.’s dedication to advancing Indigenous inclusion within major organizations, fostering awareness, respect, and collaboration on a national scale.