Reflections from National Indigenous Peoples Day: Relationships Aren’t Transactions

National Indigenous Peoples Day provides an important opportunity to recognize and celebrate the histories, cultures, perspectives, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. It is also an opportunity to reflect on something that extends beyond a single day.

Meaningful relationships are not transactions. They are not built only when there is a decision to make, a project to advance, or a moment when support is needed. They are built through listening, learning, consistency, and trust.

For organizations, this distinction matters.

Engagement should not begin only when something is needed. Strong relationships are created through ongoing understanding and genuine commitment. That foundation leads to better conversations, stronger partnerships, and better decisions.

National Indigenous Peoples Day is an important moment of recognition. But relationships are built in the days, months, and years between those moments.

Because relationships are not transactions.