In June 2023, at the heart of the Every Child Matters and Orange Shirt Day event, Our Founder, Sam Houston, delivered a poignant speech that left a lasting impact on everyone in attendance. The occasion was the dedication of a mine water truck, a symbol of commitment to raising awareness for the important hashtags: #everychildmatters and #orangetshirt campaigns.
Standing before a receptive audience of Rio Tinto and IOC employees, Sam Houston expressed his pleasure and honour in being part of such a meaningful event. The water truck dedication served as a visible reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by indigenous communities and a tribute to their resilience.
In preparing for the speech, Sam Houston delved deep into the history of indigenous peoples in Newfoundland and Labrador, uncovering a stark reality of delayed recognition and reparations. It became clear that these communities had to fight for their rights, eventually achieving recognition in 2017 after a legal battle against the Canadian government.
Sam’s speech underscored the significance of learning from such historical lessons and using them to shape a better future for all. He emphasised the importance of education and awareness, not only for himself but for everyone in the community.
The dedication event was a testament to the power of collective action and solidarity. Sam Houston recognised and applauded the efforts of the project teams and expressed gratitude to Victoria Gatehouse for organising this impactful initiative.
As a leader committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment, Sam’s speech was a call to action, urging everyone to stand together, learn from the past, and work towards a more equitable and just future. His words resonated deeply, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who attended.
The dedication of the mine water truck was not just an event but a powerful reminder of the responsibility we all share in acknowledging the past, supporting indigenous communities, and creating a better world for every child, where every voice truly matters.
#EveryChildMatters #OrangeShirtDay #DedicationEvent #InclusionAndDiversity #LeadershipCulture #IndigenousRights #Awareness
