June is National Indigenous History Month. It’s a time for all Canadians to honour the rich history, heritage, and incredible diversity of Indigenous Peoples who have called this land home since time immemorial.

It’s important to acknowledge Canada’s past and its ongoing impact of colonization, racism, and stereotypes that contribute to health inequities for Indigenous Peoples within the current Canadian healthcare system. We pay tribute to the Survivors of Indian Residential Schools, Indian Day Schools, the 60’s scoop, and missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, two-spirited, and gender diverse peoples.

Our Hospital is committed to actions to support the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action. We encourage everyone to learn and reflect on the vibrant cultures, languages, and traditions of Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island.

This week’s events:

NAN community building display

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre has partnered with Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) to showcase a community building panel display on site. This project, developed by the NAN Education Department, was funded by the Ontario Ministry of Education in response to the Seven Youth Inquest in 2016, and is aimed to address racism experienced by students in Thunder Bay schools.

The purpose of the display is to combat myths and misunderstandings that lead to racism and to provide an opportunity for respectful dialogue about Treaty relationships. The display aims to encourage truthful and respectful discussions while discouraging false and derogatory statements about Indigenous Peoples.

The panels will be on display across from Seasons Gift Shop until Friday, June 6.

Lunch & Learn (June 4)

Join Annette Klement, Cultural Safety Educator, for a Lunch and Learn on the Medicine Wheel. This session will provide a basic overview of what the Medicine Wheel represents, as well as how to use it to connect and support your patient’s care. Lunch will be provided. Click here for more information.

To learn more, click here.
Canadian Museum for Human Rights: Indigenous History and Human Rights
The Canadian Encyclopedia: The Indian Act – A Summary
Historica Canada: Residential Schools in Canada
Indigenous Corporate Training: Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action
CBC Books: 25 books that highlight beauty of Indigenous literature

Check out the poster below to see what events TBRHSC will host throughout the month.