Building and strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities is one of the three pillars of OSSGA's 2024–2027 Strategic Plan. Through respectful engagement, dialogue and collaboration, OSSGA seeks to support responsible aggregate resource development while contributing to Ontario's housing and infrastructure needs.
The association is committed to fostering meaningful relationships with First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities and promoting opportunities for mutual understanding, knowledge-sharing and partnership.
How does OSSGA engage with Indigenous communities?
OSSGA engages with Indigenous communities through relationship-building, dialogue and ongoing engagement on issues related to aggregate resource development. The association seeks opportunities to listen, learn and better understand Indigenous perspectives, priorities and interests.
Through educational initiatives, industry discussions, participation in Indigenous-led events and collaboration with community representatives, OSSGA works to support respectful and constructive engagement between the aggregate industry and Indigenous communities across Ontario.
Recognizing the unique histories, cultures and rights of Indigenous Peoples, OSSGA encourages approaches that are grounded in respect, transparency and meaningful communication.
What role do Indigenous partnerships play in aggregate development?
Indigenous partnerships play an important role in supporting responsible aggregate resource development in Ontario. Strong relationships help create opportunities for collaboration, knowledge-sharing and informed decision-making throughout the lifecycle of aggregate projects.
Partnerships can contribute to economic development, environmental stewardship, workforce participation and community engagement, while helping to build trust and long-term relationships between industry and Indigenous communities.
As demand for housing and infrastructure continues to grow, collaboration with Indigenous communities will remain an important component of advancing aggregate resource development in a manner that respects Indigenous interests and contributes to sustainable outcomes for communities across Ontario.
Through its Indigenous relations initiatives, OSSGA continues to promote dialogue, partnership and shared understanding in support of a strong and responsible aggregate industry.
Fostering Respectful Relationships
OSSGA staff has met with First Nations across Ontario, including Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and Six Nations of the Grand River, to listen and learn about their history and discuss how we can develop a mutually respectful relationship.
Promoting Meaningful Partnerships
Elder Whabagoon, with the Loon Clan, Keeper of Sacred Pipes and a member Obishikokaang, LacSeul First Nation officially launched the OSSGA Conference and AGM in February 2024. OSSGA social media frequently captures the association’s commitment to working closely with Indigenous communities, including videos with music by an Indigenous composer and narration by Waneek Horn-Miller from the Kahnawake Mohawk Territory. Waneek is also a keynote speaker at OSSGA’s Operations Health and Safety Seminar in January 2025.