2024 Conference
A Day of Conversations: Exploring Identity, Advocacy, and Interconnectedness | April 6, 10am- 4:30pm | MDCL 1105
The Indigenous Health Movement is proud to host the 2024 Indigenous Health Movement Conference. We aim to provide opportunities for students and community members to learn about community-based Healthcare by and for Indigenous peoples. Our theme this year is A Day of Conversations: Exploring Identity, Advocacy, and Interconnectedness. Attendance is free of charge for in-person and virtual attendees and lunch will be provided.
The Schedule
Saturday, April 6th, 10am - 4:30pm
Keynote
Sherry Sandy
Sherry Sandy, Director of the Office of Indigenous Health Sherry Sandy is the Director of the Office of Indigenous Health, which was created in 2022 to be the centre for the work needed to advance the Royal College’s commitment to Reconciliation. Sherry is responsible for leading the long-term strategy and ongoing business operations for the Office of Indigenous Health. This office will be guided by the Knowledge Keepers’ Circle (once convened), the Indigenous Health Committee and committee leadership. Sherry joined the Royal College as the Indigenous Health Program Manager in June 2021. Prior to that, she had approximately 10 years of demonstrated experience in progressively senior positions with a track record of accomplishments in Indigenous Health, program development, partnership, and collaboration building. She has 30 years plus working with Indigenous peoples, communities and organizations at the grassroot, regional, and national levels. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work from McMaster University and a Master of Social Work from Wilfred Laurier University.
Journey Through Trauma & Resilience to Reconciliation
The journey of an Indigenous woman as a helper/social worker using trauma informed care with a strength-based, wholistic approach. How the Office of Indigenous Health and the Indigenous Health committee at the Royal College of Physicians & Surgeons of Canada is striving to make change within the Post Graduate Medical Education.
Speakers
Jordan Carrier
Community Auntie
Presentation: Revitalizing Urban Indigenous Wellbeing through Wahkohtowin
Living the Medicine Wheel teachings: The medicine wheel teaches us there are four quadrants that require our dedicated attention - the "Physical quadrant" which encompasses everything we are from conception to elderhood. The "Mental or learning quadrant" where we gather knowledge, courage, and confidence about our world and express the gifts we can give our children. The "Emotional quadrant" where we embrace the concept of "all my relations" as a foundation for our lives and build capacity to love unconditionally. The "Spiritual quadrant" where we are reminded of the need "to be good ancestors" and guide next generations with a good heart as we walk the 7 values (grandfather/grandmother teachings) into the future.
Jordyn Plane
President of the Metis Nation of Ontario Youth Council, Social Worker
Presentation: Laughing & Learning: A Métis Social Worker's Journey
Sam Holmes
RN, BScN, MSc in Nursing Student, Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario (RNAO) Indigenous Nurses and Allies Interest Group
Presentation: Indigenous Identity and Advocacy in Nusing: A Personal Journey
A Métis Social Worker's Journey is an engaging presentation that blends humor and insight to explore the unique experiences of being both Métis and a social worker. Through anecdotes, personal reflections, and professional insights, this presentation delves into the intersection of cultural identity and social work practice. Attendees will discover how laughter can be a powerful tool for coping with challenges, building rapport with clients, and fostering resilience in both personal and professional spheres. From navigating cultural nuances to finding moments of levity in the midst of adversity, this presentation offers a refreshing perspective on the joys and struggles of being a Métis social worker.
Dr. Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux
Indigenous Chair for Truth and Reconciliation at Lakehead University
Presentation: Medicine Wheel Teachings
Jordan’s presentation outlines the journey of an Urban First Nations person living in Hamilton, acknowledging the traditional territories of the Erie, Neutral, Huron-Wendat, Haudenosaunee and Mississauga Nations. Embracing the concept of Wahkohtowin, or kinship, the speaker explores the interconnectedness of personal, professional, and community relations. She shares experiences of navigating challenges as an Indigenous individual, highlighting the importance of incorporating Wahkohtowin principles in personal identity, workplace interactions, and community engagement. Through reflection and action, the presentation encourages others to embrace Wahkohtowin for personal and collective growth, fostering stronger relationships and communities.
Samantha Holmes is an Indigenous graduate student at McMaster, where she is pursuing a Master of Science in Nursing. As a Registered Nurse working in the recovery room in Hamilton, and through her involvement with the RNAO's Indigenous Nurses and Allies Interest Group, she is passionate about starting conversations around equity, diversity, and inclusivity (EDI) in healthcare.
Samantha seeks to explore and share insights on fostering inclusivity within healthcare. Her presentation aims to reflect on her personal and professional experiences, encouraging dialogue on the importance of advocacy and community engagement in nursing. Samantha looks forward to learning alongside her audience, hoping to inspire further exploration and action in EDI.