First Nations Powwow Honors ARAMARK
In a remote forest in
Alberta, Canada, hundreds of First Nations people (called Native
Americans in the United States) from tribes across North America
gathered to celebrate and honor companies that have partnered with
their communities and benefited their people.
The song– and
dance-filled three-day gathering, called a “powwow,” honored Travers, a
Canadian-based ARAMARK company, well known for its commitment to First
Nations initiatives. The Heart Lake First Nation tribe honored Travers
with an invitation to participate in the opening ceremony, where
everyone dressed in sacred traditional regalia with intricate beadwork,
colorful fringe and feathers.
Two-thirds of Canada’s natural
resources lie on traditional First Nations territory. Groups like
Travers consult with First Nations tribes who own the land to discuss
development plans, economic factors, and environmental impact. Nearly
40 percent of Travers employees are First Nation members.