On Orange Shirt Day, we remember the children who never made it home and uphold the truth of all Survivors of Residential Schools. The lasting impacts of residential school institutions and colonial policies are still felt within our communities and continue to impact the health and wellness of our Elders, families and youth.
“FNHA is working towards a healthier future for our families, communities and future generations in BC, and honouring the truth of Survivors is at the centre of this work”, said Monica McAlduff, CEO of FNHA. “Truth must be accompanied by accountability—and for FNHA, that means continuing to support First Nations self-determination, advancing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, and working alongside partners to create a health system where cultural safety, humility, respect and belonging are experienced by all.”
At FNHA, we have collaborated with Health Standards Organization (HSO) to create the BC Cultural Safety and Humility Standard which is embedded within our organization, and have contributed to the National Cultural Safety and Humility Standard to be released later this Fall. We are also strengthening Traditional Wellness and culturally grounded approaches to care. These actions reflect our commitment to advancing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) Calls to Action 18-24 and our vision of First Nations-led health system transformation in BC.
We know that meaningful health system transformation depends on collective action and shared accountability to ensure First Nations people can access safe, equitable health and wellness services, wherever they live and without fear of discrimination. The TRC Calls to Action are a responsibility for all institutions, and we acknowledge our health system partners who have walked alongside us in this work.
As we look forward, our organization will continue our efforts to strengthen First Nations-led approaches to health and wellness, to build a health system where First Nations people experience respect, safety and belonging.
Cultural Safety and Humility Resources
- CSH and being an Ally (video)
- CSH Guidebook, MoH and FNHA: Indigenous Engagement and Cultural Safety (guidebook)
- Anti-Racism, Cultural Safety & Humility Framework (document)
- Leading a Framework for Cultural Safety & Humility for First Nations in BC (PowerPoint presentation)
To learn more, visit Cultural Safety and Humility.
Wellness and Cultural Supports:
FNHA also provides access to cultural, emotional, and mental health counselling services.
FNHA’s Mental Health and Wellness Supports page: Mental Health and Wellness Supports (fnha.ca)
Tsow-Tun-Le-Lum Society (cultural support and counselling): 1-888-403-3123
Indian Residential School Survivors Society: 1-800-721-0066 or 604-985-4464
KUU-US Crisis Line Society:
Adults/Elders: 250-723-4050;
Children/Youth: 250-723-2040;
Toll-free: 1-800-588-8717