September 30th, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Day, is a time for all Canadians to reflect on the history and impact of residential schools, to honour Survivors, and to remember the children who never returned home.
At Warrior Plumbing, this day carries deep meaning. As an Indigenous-owned and operated business, many of us have direct connections to the stories, families, and intergenerational impacts that Truth and Reconciliation seeks to acknowledge. This isn’t just history—it’s lived experience in our communities.
Being An Indigenous Business
Our perspective is different—we’re not just a company talking about reconciliation; we live it every day. Warrior Plumbing operates within a Western business system while remaining deeply grounded in Indigenous values. That duality makes us a bridge: serving Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike, and creating spaces where trust, respect, and opportunity can flow both ways.
For us, reconciliation isn’t only about remembering the past—it’s about building a present and future where Indigenous people thrive.
This means providing career paths for Indigenous Youth through our apprenticeship and journeyperson programs, working alongside developers who respect Nation-to-Nation relationships, and ensuring our projects, from Tsleil-Waututh Nation’s 50-unit housing development with BC Housing, to service work in North and West Vancouver homes, are carried out with dignity and purpose.
The Power of Building and Mentorship
Every time we help a family move into a new, safe, and healthy home, we see reconciliation in action. It’s in the pride of Indigenous Youth learning skills that will last a lifetime. It’s in the respect shown to Survivors and Elders who see new generations coming forward with opportunity. And it’s through collaboration with non-Indigenous partners who are committed to building together in positive ways.
A Call to Reflect and Act
On this Truth and Reconciliation Day, we pause to remember the children, honour the Survivors, and acknowledge the families who carry these stories forward. We also commit to action: to continue hiring, mentoring, and supporting Indigenous Youth; to work on projects that strengthen communities; and to be a bridge between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Metro Vancouver.
Reconciliation is not a single day—it’s a journey. At Warrior Plumbing, we are humbled to play a small part in that journey, one home, one apprentice, one community at a time.
What will you do to contribute to the Truth and Reconciliation movement?
Here are a few ideas:
- Wear orange to show your support for Survivors and to honour the children who never made it home.
- Learn the history of residential schools and their lasting impacts by reading resources from the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.
- Listen to Indigenous voices by attending a community event, workshop, or panel led by Indigenous leaders.
- Support Indigenous businesses to strengthen economic reconciliation.
- Have conversations with your family, friends, and coworkers about what reconciliation means and why it matters.
- Volunteer or donate to organizations like the Indian Residential School Survivor Society or local Indigenous initiatives.
- Mentor or uplift Indigenous Youth by encouraging pathways into education, trades, or leadership.
- Reflect personally: journal, share on social media, or set goals for how you will commit to reconciliation year-round, not just today.