Blackbird Security Establishes Indigenous Bursary at the Justice Institute of British Columbia

In 2015, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) — which was set up in 2008 to document the effects of residential schools on Indigenous peoples — defined reconciliation as the process of “establishing and maintaining a mutually respectful relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples in this country” (The Canadian Encyclopedia).

With Indigenous people being under-represented in the security industry, Blackbird Security feels we have a responsibility to use our growing, and forward-thinking business, to support Indigenous people in securing a career in security.

Such thinking is what sparked the idea to donate to The Justice Institute of British Columbia Foundation to establish a bursary for Indigenous students who are looking to enter the security industry.

Blackbird Security Indigenous Bursary

The Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC) is Canada’s leading public safety educator. Through their range of programs, courses and bursaries, they provide British Columbians with the knowledge, skills and experience they need to make a positive impact in their communities.

The Blackbird Security Indigenous Bursary at JIBC is available for Indigenous students in financial need and covers the cost of the online delivery of the Basic Security Training (BST) course and assessment (SCRT-1650 and SCRT-1655). Award recipients will also have the opportunity to meet with members of the Blackbird Security management team to learn more about the industry and potential career opportunities.

Annually, there are three application deadlines for the bursary:

• March 1
• June 30
• October 30

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Blackbird Security Indigenous Bursary, students must meet the following criteria:

• Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or have refugee status.
• Be an Indigenous student planning to enrol in the online delivery of Basic Security Training (BST) at JIBC.
• Demonstrate financial need not met by other available sources of funding including student loans, grants, sponsorship, work income, etc.

For full details and to apply, please visit the JIBC website: https://bit.ly/3pBEaV3

Why is This Bursary Important?

One of the foundational principles of Blackbird Security is the creation of a supportive environment in which all individuals – regardless of background or identity – can thrive and reach their potential. We acknowledge the complicated history between our industry and Indigenous communities, and believe we have an obligation (like all security companies) to address this imbalance.

In light of the current and tragic situation unfolding across Canada, we believe it’s more important than ever to be a strong and visible ally in the fight for equality and reconciliation.

Currently, approximately five per cent of our workforce identifies as Indigenous. We are committed to increasing this number. We believe a diverse workforce reflects the diverse communities we serve, while allowing us to be more innovative, empathetic and inclusive.

Ongoing Commitment to Indigenous Awareness & Support

Our efforts also extend to Indigenous Awareness training for all Blackbird Security staff. Blackbird Security is rolling out a required training for all staff (and key regional and leadership staff) to obtain the 201 Indigenous Awareness Certification, issued through Indigenous Awareness Canada.

This comprehensive five-hour certification course educates our team on Indigenous history and terminology, the legacy of residential schools, treaties and Indigenous rights, Indigenous law, Aboriginal-Crown relations, conflict resolution, human rights, and anti-racism.

The Indigenous Awareness Certification is recognized and recommended by Indigenous groups and leaders, which is fundamental to meeting corporate obligations and training requirements in support of programs like the CCAB (Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business) PAR initiative or the Government of Canada’s directives to all Canadians on adopting the Recommendations of the TRC (Truth & Reconciliation Commission).

We are strongly committed to this ongoing journey of learning and growth and will continue to equip our staff with the training and resources necessary to keep our communities safe in a manner that’s non-discriminatory and unbiased.

How to Apply for the Blackbird Security Indigenous Bursary

If you’re an Indigenous student interested in the Blackbird Security Indigenous Bursary, visit the JIBC website and download an application form.