Domtar has unveiled a new Global Indigenous Relations Policy, formalizing its commitment to building long-term, respectful, and mutually beneficial relationships with Indigenous Peoples across its operating regions.
The policy, guided by the principles of inclusion, transparency, and respect, commits Domtar to advancing reconciliation, creating economic opportunities, and integrating Indigenous knowledge and perspectives into its business practices.
“This new Global Indigenous Relations Policy represents an important next step in our company’s commitment to values-based engagement with Indigenous Peoples,” said Luc Thériault, President of Wood Products at Domtar. “It will guide our interactions with Indigenous communities and partners as we promote partnerships grounded in trust, respect and shared prosperity for all.”
Four pillars of engagement
The policy is built around four core values:
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Respect for Indigenous Rights — including recognition of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
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Cultural Awareness — offering employees training in Indigenous cultures and ensuring Indigenous perspectives inform decision-making.
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Sustainable Development — incorporating traditional knowledge into practices and partnering on conservation.
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Economic Reconciliation — expanding opportunities for Indigenous businesses and building long-term partnerships.
Lana Wilhelm, Director of Indigenous Relations, emphasized that the policy puts action behind words: “This policy embeds respect for Indigenous rights, culture and knowledge at the core of our business practices. We are dedicated to the real work of staying true to those values as we operate every day.”
Commitments in practice
Domtar highlighted existing initiatives that align with the new policy:
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Atli Chip Partnership (B.C.): A fiber-supply agreement with the ‘Na̱mǥis First Nation, supporting Indigenous participation in the forest economy.
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Outland Youth Employment Program (OYEP): A six-week paid forestry program for Indigenous youth across Canada.
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Conservation investment: $135,000 USD contributed to First 30x30 Canada to support Indigenous-led conservation.
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Historic land agreement: The return of lands at the former tiskwat mill site to the Tla’amin Nation in Powell River, B.C.
Looking ahead
The Global Indigenous Relations Policy was developed over two years by Domtar’s Indigenous Relations Steering Committee, building on policies from legacy companies Paper Excellence, Resolute Forest Products, and Domtar. It was reviewed externally by Mokwateh, an Indigenous consulting firm.
Domtar is a leading provider of fiber-based products including communication, specialty, and packaging papers, and market pulp. Following its integration with Resolute Forest Products in 2024, the company now operates under the Domtar name with an extensive North American network of mills and facilities. Headquartered in Fort Mill, South Carolina, Domtar serves customers in more than 50 countries.
