Earlier this summer, L3Harris’ Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee in Mirabel, Canada, organized a shirt design contest with some of the company’s Indigenous partners. Their goal was to collaborate with Indigenous communities to create a meaningful and unique shirt that would be worn by L3Harris employees on Canada’s National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.
"Our goal with this initiative is primarily to continue our learning journey, but also to support our on-going mission of becoming better allies to Indigenous communities and to show our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation," said Ugo Paniconi, L3Harris Technologies General Manager in Mirabel, Canada.
The L3Harris team selected a design titled "Mother Bear Energy". The artwork was created by Stacia Goodman (Qwelkes Kidilth), a Liqwiltox artist (part of the Kwakwakwa’wakw peoples), as well as members of the We Wai Kai First Nation, originating from the traditional territory of Tsa-Kwa-Luten (Cape Mudge on Quadra Island, Canada).
On September 28, 2023, L3Harris teams across Canada wore their orange shirts in support of Indigenous communities. Some employees also wore feather lapel pins produced by Pro Metal Industries Inc., a Pasqua First Nation Company, and designed by Jonas Thompson of the Cegakin First Nation. The pins were created in memory of the children who were forced to attend residential schools.
"We cherish our relationship with the Indigenous peoples," said Paniconi. "We are honored to be part of a meaningful movement that makes us grow as a team and as an organization."
A total of 500 "Mother Bear Energy" shirts were sold to employees in support of this significant day. Proceeds from this effort will be donated to a non-profit Indigenous organization.
Our team in Enfield, Nova Scotia.
