OTTAWA,
ON, May 6, 2024 /CNW/ - The Minister of
Indigenous Services, Patty Hajdu,
issued the following statement today:
"When Lindsay Iron graduated from
her university nursing program, she was driven by a single goal: to
return home and serve her people. Since then, Lindsay, an
Indigenous nurse, has been dedicated to serving First Nations
communities in northern Saskatchewan. Although she's faced adversities
and challenges along her journey, Lindsay persevered in her dreams
and is now proud to be contributing to healthier futures for
Indigenous Peoples.
Today, on Indigenous Nurses Day and at the start of National
Nursing Week, we celebrate the unique perspectives, contributions,
and dedication that Indigenous nurses—like Lindsay—bring to our
healthcare system in communities and across the country.
It's First Nations, Inuit and Métis nurses who play an essential
role in establishing culturally safe, culturally appropriate
healthcare services and programs. By continuing to increase
Indigenous representation in health professions, we can transform
our healthcare systems to meet the needs of Indigenous Peoples.
With Indigenous healthcare practitioners at the forefront of our
efforts, and with traditional Indigenous healing integrated into
our approaches, we can work together toward improved health
outcomes for Indigenous communities across Canada.
This year's theme, 'Changing Lives. Shaping Tomorrow',
encompasses that sentiment. In Indigenous communities, nurses are
the main point of contact in health centres and nursing facilities,
and they directly impact their patients' lives and overall
wellbeing. Indigenous nurses in particular are advocates, health
teachers, and healers who bring their passion, expertise, and
cultural knowledge to their practices.
To safely administer health services, we must eliminate racism
within our healthcare system and actively close the health
infrastructure gaps. And that's exactly what Indigenous nurses are
doing: leading this change and shaping new, innovative, and
holistic approaches to healthcare delivery for communities. With
their mentorship and guidance, Indigenous nurses today are ensuring
a positive future for generations of First Nations, Inuit, and
Métis nurses yet to come.
For Lindsay, she hopes her story shows Indigenous Peoples they
can achieve their goals. And even more so, she believes that
Indigenous Peoples can do anything they set their minds to.
So for all the Indigenous nurses, nursing students, and
Indigenous Peoples with a dream to deliver healthcare, we encourage
and support you in your work ahead. And for all nurses making a
difference during National Nursing Week, we thank you, we salute
you, and we honour you for building a brighter, healthier future
for us all."
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SOURCE Indigenous Services Canada