Here in York Region and South Simcoe, we acknowledge the traditional land owners, the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples and that this community is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.
Although these groups share many similarities, they each have their own distinct heritage, language, cultural practices and spiritual beliefs.
Today in Canada, we are coming to grips with the turbulent and frequently unjust history that has existed between Indigenous peoples and European settlers. Mental health is of course a key concern in many indigenous communities, and we stand by those calling for improved access to care and for systemic causes of poor health to be addressed.
We are proud to work alongside our partners BANAC to improve care for Indigenous members of our community, and we will continue to look for options to directly address the mental health concerns of this population.
Readings and Resources
National Indigenous History Month 2021- Government of Canada
Truth & Reconciliation Book Club with Pam Palmater
14 Books to Read for Indigenous People’s Month
Books, activities and games for kids to learn more about Aboriginal cultures and history
Ted Talk: Breaking the Silence Surrounding Canada’s Indigenous Crisis
An Introduction to Aboriginal Studies: A helpful overview for students or those who may not yet be familiar with the different names, cultures and traditions of Aboriginal communities in Canada.
4Rs Youth Movement: An organization dedicated to changing the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous young people.
Culture for Life: A site for Indigenous youth who want to learn more about their culture
We Matter: A place for Indigenous youth to find support to get through hard times
National Collaborating Centre for Indigenous Health: Maintaining the Health and Well-Being of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Children and Teens Through COVID-19
Government of Canada: Mental Health and Wellness in First Nations and Inuit Communities
Government of Canada: Jordan’s Principle
CMHA British Columbia: Indigenous Mental Health Promotion-Recommended Resources
Native Women’s Association of Canada: COVID-19 Resources
Network for Aboriginal Mental Health Services: Programs in Canada
Native Women’s Association of Canada and Canadian Institutes of Health Research: Mental Wellness PDF
