National Indigenous Peoples Day edition of Wiikinahmahgeh Corner with Shane Morse

Toronto – June 21, 2025 – On this National Indigenous Peoples Day, we are sharing our latest edition of Wiikinahmahgeh Corner, as part of on ongoing series sharing the voices of UFCW Indigenous members. Shane Morris, a proud UFCW 1006A member for over 40 years and a representative on UFCW Canada's National Indigenous Committee, shares his journey of reconnecting with his Indigenous (Mi'kmaq) roots. He shares his stories and his experiences with connection, recognition and the future of reconciliation in the labour movement.

“Reconciliation, to me, means moving forward as a people—but with the full truth,” says Shane. “That truth must come from our people. Too often, the history has been rewritten in ways that sound good but aren’t truthful. Within the labour movement and our workplaces, I want to see people feel safe asking questions—without fear or shame. We need to truly learn what happened, so we can move forward, celebrate together, and grow.”

“Most importantly, I want Indigenous communities and peoples to have a voice—not just to be heard, but to be integrated into Canadian society in a meaningful way,” he adds. “Our perspectives should be listened to and understood. Understanding our history helps not just our communities and our workplaces, but all Canadians. The past is a reflection of our future.”

Watch Shane’s full video below.

Wiikinahmahgeh means Education in Anishnawbe. UFCW Indigenous members are sharing their voices and stories in this ongoing series.

Read UFCW Canada’s full statement on National Indigenous Peoples Day here, and learn more about our union’s ongoing Indigenous-focused advocacy work here.