Skip navigation

BMO Announces Indigenous Advisory Council

January 16, 2020 | Diversity, equity and inclusion

BMO has established an Indigenous Advisory Council with members from Indigenous communities across Canada. The Council will support further education and awareness, provide input on policies and practices, and build on BMO’s long-term commitment to diversity and inclusion.

As the BMO Indigenous Advisory Council expands, it will be representative of First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities. Some of the founding members include:

  • Chief Patrick Michell, Kanaka Bar Indian Band, BC
  • Regional Chief Roger Augustine, Assembly of First Nations, NB/PEI
  • Minister Anita Campbell, Manitoba Metis Federation, MN
  • Chief Terry Paul, Membertou First Nation, NS
  • Chief Darcy Bear, Whitecap Dakota First Nation, SK
  • Kevin Chief, Principal, Chief Partnerships, Manitoba Inc., MN
  • Chief Don Maracle, Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, ON
  • Chief Ouray Crowfoot, Siksika Nation, AB

“My experience with BMO is one of an inclusive organization that has made an exceptional effort over many years to work effectively with Indigenous communities,” said Regional Chief Roger Augustine, Assembly of First Nations. “The work of the Advisory Council will lead to positive change around cultural awareness and the spirit of reconciliation, peace and friendship.”

BMO CEO Darryl White also announced that the bank will be introducing a new learning requirement, in partnership with Indigenous leaders, for all senior leadership teams across Canada. BMO is accelerating planned training for all employees in Canada as a response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) call to action on providing education on Indigenous Peoples history, including the history and legacy of residential schools, Treaties, and Aboriginal rights. Additionally, new training will be provided to assist branch employees in best serving Indigenous customers.

For nearly three decades, BMO has been working with Indigenous communities to support economic self-determination. The Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business has recognized BMO with five Gold Level certifications for the bank’s approach to the Indigenous market and for understanding the business case for a diverse workforce and equitable supportive workplace. BMO previously announced, as part of its Purpose commitment to build an inclusive society, that it will double its Indigenous banking business by 2025 and double BMO’s team of Indigenous bankers. Through BMO’s company-wide training program and its Indigenous Enterprise Resource Group (the Sharing Circle), BMO encourages understanding, self-identification, and celebration of Indigenous Peoples and cultures.

Learn more about BMO’s Indigenous Banking Unit and commitment to supporting Indigenous communities and employees, check out our innovative education program for business people serving Indigenous communities, and read the latest coverage of our banking support in Bloomberg News.

Related Insights