Indigenous Students Resources

Employers are looking to hire Indigenous graduates. This not only brings diversity and representation into the workforce but also helps employers integrate Indigenous perspectives into their practices.

Remember, the Career & Student Success Advisors are here to help you reach your academic and career goals - set up a meeting here. We will support you in highlighting your strengths, navigating the job search process and will guide you through any barriers to success.

On-Campus Support for Indigenous Students

Indigenous Education & Engagement
works in partnership with regional Indigenous communities to ensure Indigenous students are supported and connected to their learning environment- academically, culturally and socially.

How to know if an employer is inclusive?

Ask anyone you know who works there. Ask about the diversity of the staff, is diversity addressed?
Go to the employer's website. Look for inclusive language. Have they organized any diversity initiatives?
Do they invite applicants from diverse backgrounds (Indigenous people, racialized people, persons with disabilities, etc)? If they do, it's probably an indication that they are trying to be inclusive.
Check the company's policies - do they have a diversity policy or statement? Is diversity or inclusivity noted in their mission?
Check to see if they're listed as a Diverse Employer at canadastop100.com/diversity. If they are not, it doesn't mean that they don't care or are not interested - maybe they're number 101!

Disclosing your Indigenous Identity

As discussed in the "Should You Disclose Aboriginal Status To Potential Employers?" article, there are many benefits to disclosing, including scholarships, bursaries, and unique job opportunities specifically for Indigenous peoples. Some people may not be comfortable disclosing, perhaps due to previous negative experiences or racism. It is entirely up to you.
It is illegal for an employer (or potential employer) to ask about your ethnicity, race, religion, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, among others. It is your choice to disclose your identity, but it is not mandatory for you to do so.
If you decide to self-identify, there are many ways to do so such as, listing Indigenous organizations that you have been involved with on your resume, or talking about the importance of diversity to you in the interview or your cover letter. "The Right Way to Identify Yourself as a Diversity Hire" article has some good points to consider.
If you would like to discuss this further, feel free to contact a Career & Student Success Advisor, or the Indigenous Education & Engagement at Humber.