On International Women's Day (March  8), the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) honours and celebrates the many successes of our Indigenous matriarchs, mothers, aunties, sisters, daughters, granddaughters, nieces, and cousins. These incredible women are inspirational leaders and role models for all of us on our individual and collective health and wellness journeys. 

Historically, many First Nations were matrilineal societies, where women played central roles in governance, decision-making, and community well-being. Colonialism disrupted these structures, imposing patriarchal systems that sought to erase Indigenous women's power and voices. Today, we are witnessing a resurgence where Indigenous women are reclaiming leadership, revitalizing traditional knowledge, and shaping the future of our communities.

This year's theme for International Women's Day is accelerate action. At FNHA, this theme is reflected by the resurgence of female leadership in our organization including of two remarkable women, Monica McAlduff, FNHA CEO and Dr. Sheila Blackstock, FNHA Board Chair. Their expertise, lived experience, and commitment to First Nations health and wellness position them as champions for First Nations communities across BC.

Monica McAlduff: Leading with Cultural Safety and Humility

Monica is of mixed ancestry from the Secwépemc Nation on her mother's side and French Canadian on her father's side. She has over 30 years of experience in clinical and operational health leadership and has served within FNHA since 2020, most recently as Chief Nursing Officer and Vice President of Cultural Safety and Humility and Allied Health.

Monica's leadership is centered on humility, advocacy, and a deep respect for First Nations resilience. Her approach is about seeing strength in our communities and using that strength to transform the health system.

Reflecting on the significance of International Women's Day, Monica shared, "I am continually inspired by the strength and resilience of First Nations people, especially women. I would not be here without the bravery and perseverance of the Indigenous women who came before me. Notwithstanding the ongoing inequities and injustices experienced by First Nations women, I feel it's important we stand strong and lift each other up,"

“Today, FNHA celebrates the progress we've made while recognizing the work still ahead. We remain committed to advancing gender equality, dismantling colonial and patriarchal systems, and ensuring that First Nations women and girls have the representation, rights, and opportunities they deserve—both within our organization and across the wider health system."​ 

Dr. Sheila Blackstock: A Champion for Indigenous Health and Education

Dr. Sheila Blackstock is Gitxsan from Northern BC.  She has over 38 years of experience working as a nurse, serving in acute care, rural, remote, and Indigenous communities.

A founding member of Thompson Rivers University's Indigenous Health Nursing Committee, Dr. Blackstock assumed the role of inaugural Chair, leading initiatives to integrate Indigenous knowledge systems into nursing education. She brings great humility and lived experience to her role and works so that every voice, especially those from rural and remote populations are represented.

“I am continually inspired by the next generation of First Nations Women leaders, the young women I see in community who are using their voices to uplift their communities", says Dr. Blackstock.

“International Women's Day holds deep meaning for me, as I come from a family of strong matriarchs, my mother, a wise and compassionate leader in community, and my sister, a leader in her own right, who taught me the importance of hard work, education, preserving our traditions and the power of standing up for what is right with kindness and resilience.

Looking to the future Dr. Blackstock said, “To all First Nations women and girls, I say, believe in yourself. Learn from your Elders, engage with your community, and stay connected to your culture and language. Our traditions hold strength, and through them, we can reach our greatest potential."

A Celebration of First Nations Women

On this International Women's Day, FNHA stands with all First Nations women, celebrating their strength, resilience, and contributions. We recognize the work that has been done, and the work that still lies ahead, to ensure that First Nations women and girls are supported, uplifted, and empowered in every aspect of life.

We invite everyone to take a moment today to honour the First Nations women in your life.