MNP releases book on Indigenous rights

MNP, one of Canada’s largest accounting and consulting firms, has released “An Introductory Guide to Understanding Indigenous Rights,” a book on Indigenous rights and Canada’s historic and ongoing relationship with Indigenous peoples.

The more than 130-page, full-colour book covers 300 years of treaties, conflicts, and the journey toward reconciliation.

The book’s lead author is Tracy Campbell, a consultant with more than 25 years of experience in the field of Indigenous rights. She is principal of Calliou Group, a consulting firm providing strategic advice to Indigenous Nations on treaty rights. Campbell also previously worked in the area of Aboriginal affairs and consultation at Stantec, the Government of Alberta, and the Government of the Northwest Territories.

"This book offers an opportunity to contribute to the continued understanding of the responsibility Canadians have to uphold Indigenous and treaty rights as a fundamental part of who we are as a country," said Clayton Norris, VP of Indigenous services at MNP.

Though the book covers a long historical timeline, its subject matter continues to have contemporary relevance, according to Norris, a member of Cold Lake First Nation. “With Canadians now once again facing the country's unsettling residential school history, the underlying message is perhaps more important and relevant than ever," he added.

MNP created the book as “an important next step” in the firm’s commitment to supporting and advocating for the Indigenous community’s equal and active participation in Canadian society, according to a press release.

"As a national firm, MNP works with many public sector organizations, resource developers, and privately-owned businesses who either work with Indigenous nations, employ Indigenous people, or have contracts with Indigenous-run businesses,” Norris said. “We believe this book has the potential to drive deeper understanding and conversations that can inform these working relationships."

MNP has more than 300 professionals offering accounting, tax, and consulting services to 250+ Indigenous clients.

The Calgary-headquartered firm – which has more than 7,000 employees across Canada – said it will donate proceeds from the sale of the book to Orange Shirt Society and The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjak Fund. The two organizations focus on education, reconciliation, and eliminating prejudice against Indigenous peoples.

"Now more than ever, Canadians are reckoning with the terrible injustice of the residential school system," said Phyllis Webstad, executive director at Orange Shirt Society. "An Introductory Guide to Understanding Indigenous Rights provides much needed context on the events and mindsets that led to its implementation and the effects these continue to have on Indigenous communities across the country."

The book is available for purchase on MNP’s website.