Remarks from Colette Murphy on the launch of the TMX Group’s Reconciliation Action Plan

On Friday, Sept. 26, Colette Murphy — Executive Director of the Atkinson Foundation and former Co-Chair of the SHARE Board of Directors — spoke at an event marking the launch of the TMX Group’s Reconciliation Action Plan. The company says the plan, which details its long-term commitments to further Indigenous reconciliation in Canada, was developed through extensive engagement with Indigenous organizations, leaders and experts. It was also the product of long-term engagement from responsible investors like Atkinson, with support from organizations including SHARE and the Reconciliation and Responsible Investment Institute (RRII).

Murphy’s full remarks are included below:

I’m Colette Murphy, the chief executive officer of the Atkinson Foundation. I’m a grateful supporter of the Reconciliation and Responsible Investment Initiative and the Shareholder Association for Research and Education.

The Atkinson Foundation is an institutional investor who holds shares in the TMX Group. Today, I stand here as a proud investor among a growing number who share a commitment to Indigenous inclusion and economic reconciliation.

I’m one among many witnesses to the leadership demonstrated by John McKenzie and his team in the 1,456 days since Canada marked the first National Truth and Reconciliation Day. These days will be long remembered for the hard and gratifying work that turned good intentions into a serious plan to direct strategies and resources. 

This is the kind of leadership we imagined – and expected – in 2021 when we made our shareholder proposal. 

Leadership that walks the talk inside and helps build collaborative capacity outside. 

Leadership that listens closely to Indigenous partners and makes critical connections within Canada’s capital markets that benefit everyone. 

Leadership that convenes, builds understanding among non-Indigenous business leaders, and facilitates Indigenous participation in corporate decision-making and the economy.

Your four pillars provide the foundation upon which all of us can build an open and inclusive 21st century economy that shows the world what is possible and what matters most in a turbulent time.

Today, we’re celebrating a significant milestone on the path of Indigenous inclusion and reconciliation. 

But really we’re celebrating the unforgettable leaders who make history, not just change.

Leaders who imagine and create a better future for all of us, not just for themselves and their own families. 

Leaders who leverage their position, reputation, relationships and resources in the service of a real and lasting return on investment. 

Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders together.

You can count on the Atkinson Foundation to be behind you — and leaders like you — every step of this new way.