June is National Indigenous History Month, a time to honour the histories, cultures and living knowledge of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. In Northern BC, it is also an opportunity to reaffirm a shared commitment between Northern Health and the First Nations Health Authority, one dedicated to improving health and wellness for Indigenous patients, families and communities.
Both organizations recognize that Indigenous history is living knowledge, carried through land, story, ceremony, and community. Understanding this history and respecting the diversity of cultures, languages and teachings strengthens how we deliver health and wholistic wellness to our patients.
Our shared goal is clear: to support safe, respectful and culturally informed care experiences. Like paddling the same river, this shared work requires coordination, listening and trust, with the understanding that meaningful change can only come by working together.
Across the North, Indigenous histories are deeply rooted in place. Each Nation holds its own teachings and ways of knowing, shaped by relationships to land, water, family and community. Honouring these histories and perspectives within health care spaces is an important part of building trust with Indigenous people and demonstrating a commitment to cultural safety and humility.
Together, FNHA and Northern Health acknowledge the lasting impacts of colonial systems that disrupted Indigenous ways of life and wellbeing. These impacts continue to affect how Indigenous patients and families experience health and social systems, particularly in northern and rural communities.
At the same time, Indigenous history is grounded in strength, resilience and continuity. Across Northern BC, communities continue to lead healing through language and cultural revitalization, ceremony and community‑driven wellness. These acts of resurgence reflect the enduring strength and leadership of Nations throughout the region.
By working in partnership, FNHA and Northern Health are committed to creating safer, more welcoming and more responsive health systems grounded in relationship.
National Indigenous History Month reminds us that this work does not begin and end in June. It is ongoing work, rooted in place, guided by relationship and carried forward by our shared purpose in supporting our Indigenous patients, families, and communities.
