Friday, June 20, 2025

Dave’s Story: Resilience, Respect, and a Path Forward

As we mark National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, we continue to highlight the voices and lived experiences of CLAC’s Indigenous members—individuals who contribute their skills, stories, and perspectives to workplaces across the country.

In this third feature of our series, we speak with Dave Faubert, a CLAC member working in the mining sector, about what this day means to him, how he honours his heritage, and the importance of respect—for people, land, and the journey of learning.

“We’re Still Learning”

For Dave, National Indigenous Peoples Day is about recognition—of identity, of resilience, and of the continued process of reconnecting with culture.

“It’s about recognition, the culture—I mean, how to be Indigenous. It’s nice seeing that more communities are open to accepting it.”

Though he’s typically worked on June 21, Dave views the day as one of celebration—and considers his coworkers to be part of his extended family. His own connection to his cultural roots has been shaped by the history of his family.

“My grandmother attended residential schools. Because of that, she didn’t pass on much of that culture. My mom followed suit with religion. I’m trying to re-learn the best I can—for my children’s sake.”

That process of rediscovery is deeply personal, and ongoing. “We’re still learning.”

Proud of Resilience

While Dave’s cultural upbringing may have been limited, his pride in being Indigenous runs deep.

“I’m proud of the resilience of our people. The fact that we can still stand after everything we’ve been through—that makes me proud.”

In his work and in his relationships, Dave has found connection through a shared cultural thread: humour.

“Talking with other Indigenous people, we all seem to share the same humour. I use that in my day-to-day—it helps us all get along.”

“We Borrow This Land from Our Children”

Working in the mining industry, Dave carries a strong environmental ethic rooted in Indigenous values.

“I believe we borrow this land from our children. It’s up to us to leave them something to live off. We need to respect the land, keep it clean, and respect the animals in it.”

He’s also aware of the power of this day as a platform for learning.

“I’ve heard racial slurs in the past—it usually comes from a lack of understanding. That’s why a day like this is important. It opens up conversations. It’s a teaching day.”

A Voice of Many

Dave has been a CLAC steward for two years and values the sense of support that comes with being part of a team.

“It’s not really something that’s pointed out, but I’ve always felt supported.”

When asked what reconciliation means to him, he reflects on the importance of education and voice. “Reconciliation is about learning and teaching. It’s our voice being heard. We were a people, and we are a people—of many.”

He also calls on all workers and employers to share in a sense of responsibility for the land we work on.

“Indigenous people are often seen as caretakers of the land, and I hope more companies take that seriously. It shouldn’t just be about production.”

Looking to the Future

Dave’s advice for young Indigenous workers is straightforward and empowering: “Keep your head up, be proud, work hard, and be yourself. Be comfortable being yourself.”

His hope for the future reflects the heart of this series and the spirit of reconciliation:

“My hope is that we are all in this together. I hope one day we learn to live and work and accept each other—and that we succeed as one nation.”

Join Us in Building Better Workplaces

Dave’s voice reminds us that reconciliation begins with listening, learning, and taking care—of each other and of the land we share.

If you'd like to partner with CLAC and build better workplaces together, please visit our website to learn more.

Dave’s Story: Resilience, Respect, and a Path Forward

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