Welcome to a recap of the fifth Traditional Healing Advisory Circle Gathering, held from March 19th to March 21st, 2024, in Toronto, ON. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined us for this enriching event.
Exploring Two-Eyed Seeing in Healthcare:
One of the highlights of the gathering was the insightful panel discussion on Etuaptmunk: Two-Eyed Seeing in healthcare. Esteemed panelists including Brenda Robert (NBIH), Marie Jones (DAHAC), Hector Copegog (BANAC), Jennifer Elinsky (SKHC), and Marlene Landon (WNHAC) shared their perspectives from both traditional and western healthcare practices.
Nurturing New Generations of Practitioners:
Another engaging session centered around Gikinoo’amaadiwin-Learning New Things, a mentorship program crucial for fostering a sustainable Traditional Healing and Wellness workforce. Niibishens Trudeau (SKHC), Gloria Oshkabewisens-McGrego (SKHC), Chris Walser (BANAC), Katia d’Argencourt (TI), and Christopher Church (TI) illuminated the importance of mentorship in nurturing future generations of practitioners.
Sharing Insights and Experiences:
Throughout the gathering, Knowledge Exchange sessions provided a platform for IPHCOs (Indigenous Primary Health Care Organizations) to showcase their integration of Traditional Healing and Wellness into primary health care programs. Topics ranged from preventative healthcare and mental health wellness to land-based healing and youth mentorship. Here’s a glimpse into the topics and IPHCOs present:
- Preventative health care: Mamway Wiidokdaadwin Primary Care Team
- Health education and promotion: Sioux Lookout First Nation Health Authority
- Mental Health & Wellness: Matawa Health Cooperative
- Land Based Healing: Noojmoowin Teg Health Centre
- Traditional Medicines: North Bay Indigenous Hub
- Traditional Practitioner Experience within Primary Care: Mino Mshkiki
- Pre and postnatal health care: Anishnawbe Mushkiki
- Youth Mentorship: Shkagamik Kwe Health Centre
Embracing Two-Eyed Seeing:
An underlying theme throughout the event was the concept of “two-eyed seeing,” emphasizing the complementary nature of traditional healing alongside western medicine within primary healthcare settings. By embracing this approach, participants explored ways to enrich patient care and promote holistic well-being.
We extend our sincere thanks to all the panelists and participants for their invaluable contributions, enriching discussions, and shared wisdom. Together, we continue to pave the way for a healthier, more inclusive future.
