BC NEIHR July 1, 2023

Grizzlies once ranged all over North America, but now they are mostly found in the Pacific northwest. Just over 13,000 grizzlies live in BC. They live in wild areas, undisturbed by humans. In BC, this animal is found in the Coast and Mountains, Central Interior, Sub-Boreal Interior, Southern Interior Mountains and Northern Boreal Mountains ecoprovinces. Cubs are born in the den with their mother in January to March, while the mother is in torpor. They usually stay with their mother until they are 18 months to three years old. Grizzly bears can live 25 to 30 years in the wild. They are threatened by habitat loss from logging and development, and they are also hunted for their hides and for trophies. Learn more here.

Mission Statement: The BC NEIHR facilitates and supports capacity for and engagement in Indigenous-led health research that is woven from the values, knowledge systems, protocols, priorities and leadership of Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations (ICCOs), academic researchers and students in BC. Our collective goal is to ground BC NEIHR structures, relationships and processes in the values and principles of self-determination, Indigenous knowledge, wholistic population health and wellness, as well as intersectionality, equity, and transparency. We also aspire to promote and support Indigenous and/or decolonizing (ID) methodologies, ethics and OCAP® in Indigenous research. In BC NEIHR activities, we acknowledge and will uphold the cultural safety and cultural humility that is modeled by the work of the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) and the work yet to come from other ICCOs.

The BC NEIHR is guided by three Indigenous-governed, community-led organizations that are leading health and wellness research across BC. The three salmon in our logo represent these key partners:

If you would like to join the British Columbia Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research, fill out the BC NEIHR Registration Survey Form.

Being part of the BC NEIHR will connect you to research and student funding, trainings, events, employment and other unique opportunities in British Columbia and across Canada!

Already a BC NEIHR Member? Do not forget to update your Registration Form each year to ensure we have accurate records.

BC NEIHR UPDATES

BC NEIHR Nominated Principal Investigator, Dr. Jeff Reading, has been appointed to the Order of Canada for his grounding breaking contributions and leadership in bringing Indigenous perspectives to scientific and health institutions

June 2023 Order of Canada appointees

Congratulations, Dr. Reading. The BC NEIHR is lucky to have you!

About Dr. Reading: Jeffrey Reading has more than two decades of experience enhancing knowledge in Indigenous health issues, both in Canada and globally. He obtained Master of Science (1991) and Doctor of Philosophy (1994) in Community Health Sciences, (now the Dalla Lana Faculty of Public Health), University of Toronto and was the inaugural Scientific Director of the Institute of Aboriginal Peoples’ Health at the Canadian Institutes of Health Research from 2000 to 2008. Jeff led a movement calling for a national advanced research agenda in the area of Aboriginal Peoples’ health and led the CIHR cross-cutting initiative in rural and northern health research. Jeff’s broad interests in research in Public Health has brought attention to issues including but not limited to: the social determinants of health, environmental issues including provision of safe potable water, health promotion and disease prevention, heart health, diabetes, tobacco misuse and accessibility to health care among Aboriginal Canadians. Jeff has played a pivotal role in the introduction of Canadian ethics guidelines for Aboriginal health research. In 2016, Jeff was appointed the Inaugural British Columbia First Nations Health Authority Chair in Heart Health and Wellness at St. Paul’s Hospital based at Simon Fraser University, renewed in 2021 for 5 years to 2026. Jeff is a member of the BC Covid-19 strategic research advisory committee.

The NEIHR National Coordinating Centre in partnership with the host NEIHR, the Wabanaki-Labrador Indigenous Health Research Network, invite Indigenous students to join us for research presentations, workshops, and more on beautiful Unama'ki (Cape Breton), the unceded land of the Mi'kmaq. Registration information COMING SOON!

Call for Abstracts is NOW OPEN! Submission forms can be found here. All abstract submissions are due on July 12, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. AST. Please email your submissions to NGGS@dal.ca.

The BC NEIHR has funds to pay for travel and accommodation expenses for Indigenous students to attend and present but there are limited spots. We will be sharing more details on how to apply soon.

Honoring the life and legacy of Wilson Pereira Mendes

It is with deep sadness that we share our grief over the loss of Wilson Mendes. At his family’s request, we are sharing these words honoring his life and legacy:

June 2, 1974, our dear Wilson Pereira Mendes was born into this world. We are devastated to share that on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, he began his journey into the next. Throughout his lifetime, Wilson possessed a remarkable ability to make others feel seen, supported, and loved. He radiated joy and positivity, brightening the lives of those he encountered.

Although it feels impossible to summarize Wilson's contributions and the impact he has had on this world and on those around him, we'd like to share a bit about his journey here with us.

Born in Aquidauana, Brazil, Wilson carried a deep love for his homeland and was committed to learning and proudly sharing his Indigenous Terena and Guarani-Kaiowá/Mozambican cultural teachings. As a Sun Dancer and community leader, Wilson was committed to social and environmental justice and improving the lives of Indigenous people. He spent his life advocating for equity and sustainability, never wavering in his devotion to improving humanity.

Wilson pursued a Master’s in Indigenous Planning and a Ph.D. in Integrated Studies in Land and Food Systems. His doctorate took place on the unceded traditional and ancestral Territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) People, at xwc̓ic̓əsəm Garden at UBC Farm. Wilson’s research focused on the intersection of Indigenous regenerative land-based education and Indigenous food sovereignty to support Indigenous urban youth’s health, identity, and wellness. As an Indigenous scholar, Wilson contributed to creating and holding safe and sacred spaces to support the voices and visions of Indigenous peoples worldwide in response to colonialism, climate change, and capitalism. He left an incredible legacy of inspiration, hope, and motivation for those battling discrimination, inequality, and social injustice.

Wilson’s love and dedication to his family was inspiring. Wilson was a cherished son to his mother, Terezinha Pereira Mendes, and dear grandson to the late Maria Toledo Mendes and Alcides Pereira Mendes who helped raise him. His early formative years were shared with his cousins Robson, Evelin, Aparecida, Cristiane, Alcindio, and Reinaldo, forging deep bonds that lasted a lifetime. He was a devoted husband and partner to Fiona Smulders for twelve rich years, and a caring and supportive Father to his three beautiful children João Victor Mendes, Attila Kovacs-Mendes, and Jade Mendes. He has now joined his grandparents and his Father Wilson Pereira Alves and will remain in the hearts of his family forever.

May Wilson's spirit continue to dance under the sun, guiding and inspiring all who were touched by his love and light.

His family and the entire community are grieving his loss. If you are interested and able to lend support, a Go Fund Me has been set up (here), along with a meal train for Fiona (here). All are invited to share memories and photos on a Facebook tribute page (here).

Please share widely with the individuals and communities he inspired and continues to inspire.

Remember to take excellent care of yourself and others as we support Wilson in his next spiritual quest.

Watch this short and interactive learning module on steps toward allyship by Kalea Palmer. This video is intended to offer non-Indigenous people some foundational knowledge, including a list of resources, on allyship and starting one's journey.

Click here for the the accompanying worksheet. Visit the Resources page of our website to access these and other allyship and Indigenous cultural safety materials.

The BC NEIHR is excited to share our Podcast, Research DE-Colonized: Ethical, Indigenous-Led Health and Wellness Research in Canada!

Join BC NEIHR Indigenous Health Research Facilitator, Laura McNab-Coombs, as she connects with inspiring Indigenous health and wellness scholars, healthcare professionals, and communities sharing their stories of how they’re decolonizing health and wellness research, changing healthcare and academe along the way. Topics of conversation will cover pathways into health and wellness research, techniques and research design, funding research, past and present health and wellness projects, and ethical research protocols when involving Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations. Our first episode features Laura as she introduces listeners to the Who, What, and Why of the BC NEIHR, our programming and funding opportunities, and what to expect in future episodes. Episodes will be released on the last Friday of every month. To listen, find us at: https://researchdecolonized.buzzsprout.com. This podcast is also hosted on Spotify, Podchaser, Player FM, and Podcast Addict. For more information on the podcast or the material presented, please contact lauramcnabcoombs@uvic.ca.

S1E5 - In this episode, Laura sits down with Marion Erickson as they chat about her experiences conducting participatory action research to revitalize traditional Dakelh perinatal practices. Marion is the Research Manager at the Health Arts Research Centre at UNBC and a Masters of Education Candidate at Thompson Rivers University.

Research Funding

New! Pilot Project Grants valued up to $20,000 for Indigenous early career researchers in BC! Call for Applications now open!

In partnership with Health Research BC and the BC SUPPORT Unit, the new funding amounts offered by the BC NEIHR are up to $15,000 (one-year; non-renewable) and $20,000 (one-year; non-renewable) for Patient-Oriented Stream. Funds can be used to cover costs associated with the following types of activities: 1) planning and executing pilot projects or feasibility studies to generate proof of concept and/or preliminary data; 2) development and/or validation of new Indigenous tools, methodologies, protocols, theoretical models or frameworks. For more information and the application materials, visit our website or email the Network Coordinator: bcneihr@uvic.ca. The deadline to apply is August 31, 2023.

New Personnel Awards for Indigenous Scholars. Heart & Stroke, along with Brain Canada and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research-Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health (CIHR-ICRH), is excited to announce the launch of the Personnel Awards for Indigenous Scholars. These new awards aim to promote strategic growth in heart and brain health science with Indigenous communities by supporting Indigenous students to pursue their post graduate studies. For more information, click here. Competition closes September 1, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. ET.

2024 suite of funding programs: Advancing health research that improves health, saves lives, and strengthens BC’s economy. Michael Smith Health Research BC announced their 2024 suite of funding programs that provide opportunities for BC health researchers across all regions of the province. Learn more here.

Building research talent for BC’s future:

• Health Professional-Investigator – October 2023. After a one-year pause, the HP-I Program is returning for the 2024 competition. The program supports health professionals who are actively involved in patient care to build their health research programs.
• Scholar – October 2023. The Scholar Program supports early career health researchers, helping them form their own research teams, train the next generation of scientists, and develop world-leading research programs.
• Research Trainee – November 2023. The Research Trainee Program supports the best and brightest health researchers in training to enable career development and support world-class health research in BC.

Mobilizing communities for research impact:

• Convening & Collaborating (C²) – April 2024. Convening & Collaborating supports teams of health researchers and research users to co-develop research that can have direct impacts on people, including patients, health practitioners and policy makers.
• Reach – April 2024. Reach supports teams of researchers and research users to disseminate research evidence with those who can directly benefit from it in order to impact health and care in BC.

Student Funding

Research Experience Award. The objective is to support Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) graduate students studying in British Columbia (BC), who are pursuing Indigenous wellness-related research and seeking to gain additional research-related experience. Eligibility: Indigenous graduate students in BC who have partnered with an Indigenous community, collective or organization (ICCO) to engage in a wellness-related research project that is mutually beneficial. Partnerships can form in response to a placement advertised by BC NEIHR or can be a pre-existing relationship. Applicants must be studying in and conducting research in British Columbia. Applicants must also have an Academic Mentor at an eligible institution for funds to be transferred. For more information and how to apply, click here. No deadline: Research Experiences will be reviewed on a rolling basis, pending opportunities available for placements within ICCOs. Any student who has a pre-established relationship with an ICCO is eligible to submit an application with their ICCO partner at any time.

New Relationship Trust - Student Scholarship and Bursaries. The bursaries and scholarships program provides financial support to First Nation students to assist them in achieving success in their post-secondary journey. For more information and how to apply, click here. Deadline: August 1, 2023.

Build your own bright future with just one application! Hundreds of bursaries, scholarships, and awards. Since 2004, Indspire has provided over $153 million in financial support to more than 49,000 First Nations, Inuit and Métis students.

Bursaries, Scholarships and Awards for Post-Secondary Education and Skilled Trades. Full and part time studies in college, university, skilled trades, apprenticeships, and technology programs for the September 2022 – August 2023 academic year. There is one application for all of Indspire’s bursaries, scholarships, and awards (*with a few exceptions). You only need to complete the application once to be considered for all applicable bursaries, scholarships, and awards. Deadlines: August 1, November 1, and February 1 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. *For more information and to apply, click here.

Post-Secondary Student Support Program (PSSSP). Provides eligible First Nations students with funding to access education opportunities at the post-secondary level, including university and college entrance preparation programs. For more information and how to apply, click here. Application Deadlines:

• November 1, 2023 – for the Winter 2024 semester (January-April)
• March 31, 2024 – for students applying for the Summer 2024 semester (May-August)

First Citizens Fund Student Bursary Program. Provides financial awards to Indigenous students enrolled in post-secondary education. Bursaries between $700-$1,200 are awarded to students who meet all eligibility requirements and who demonstrate significant financial need. Students apply for the bursary after they successfully complete a semester of post-secondary school. For more information and how to apply, click here. Application Deadlines:

• September 15th, 2023 – for students applying for the Summer 2023 semester (May-August)
• January 15th, 2024 – for students applying for the Fall 2023 semester (September-December)
• May 15th, 2024 – for students applying for the Winter 2024Semester (January-April)

The BC First Nations Forestry Council Indigenous Forestry Scholarship Program (IFSP) is designed to provide support for First Nations, Inuit or Métis students interested in attending full-time studies in the following applicable areas: Forestry Technician; Natural Resources; Environmental Technology; Business Management; Business Administration; Geographic Information Systems; and Forestry Trades. For more information and how to apply, click here. No Deadline.

ATCO Indigenous Education Awards Program. Our Indigenous Education Awards Program supports students from First Nation, Métis and Inuit communities who demonstrate a balanced lifestyle and commitment in their quest for education. The Merit, Bursary, Scholarship and Bridging Awards are available to select students who demonstrate leadership capabilities and strive to be role models in their school and community. For more information and to apply, click here. Deadline: August 15, 2023.

Indigenous Disability Canada’s Support for Indigenous Student Learning Program (SISLP) is a time-limited project for Indigenous students across Canada who have limited financial resources, including those students living with disabilities. The SISLP is accepting applications from students of any age enrolled in a Formal educational institution (either online, remote, or through on-site learning) to be considered to receive a laptop and other technology / equipment supports necessary to assist with their continued education and success. For more information and how to apply, click here. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until March 15th, 2024. Due to the limited funding and a high demand, it is recommend that applicants submit their completed application as early as possible. Please contact sislp@bcands.bc.ca if you need assistance with the application or have any questions.

Employment Opportunities

• Indigenous Health Research Facilitators (IHRFs) - Northern and Fraser Valley Regions. Under the supervision of the Nominated Principal Applicant, Dr. Jeff Reading, and Network Coordinator, Tara Erb, as well as working with the BC NEIHR key partners (First Nations Health Authority, Métis Nation BC, and BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres), and the BC SUPPORT Unit, the IHRFs will undertake the following activities: Support Indigenous Communities, Collectives and Organizations (ICCOs); Knowledge Sharing and Mobilization (KSM), Event Coordination, Special Projects and Travel; and Communications and Training. For the full job posting and how to apply, click here. Applications will be reviewed until the positions are filled.

• Manager, Indigenous Relations & Reconciliation. Health Research BC is enacting organizational commitments to help accelerate the self-determination of Indigenous peoples in health research, contribute to Indigenous cultural safety in the health research system, and learn from Indigenous research and ways of knowing for the benefit of our work overall. This work is grounded in respect for Indigenous self-determination and awareness of reconciliation as an active and ongoing process. As BC’s health research agency, we acknowledge the negative impact of health research historically upon Indigenous peoples. The Manager, Indigenous Relations & Reconciliation role has been developed to deepen our practices of Indigenous cultural humility in furtherance of Indigenous cultural safety and reconciliation across our operations and relationships. Location: Vancouver, British Columbia (Remote). For more information and how to apply, click here. Will remain open until a suitable candidate has been appointed.
• To view all open positions, click here.

Faculty Member, Kinesiology. Applications are invited from qualified individuals for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor position in the College of Kinesiology at the University of Saskatchewan. The successful candidate will be a community engaged scholar with research expertise in physical activity, movement or sport that are aligned with the College's research themes of Indigenous Wellness and/or Child and Youth Health and Development. The successful candidate will maintain an externally funded research program, supervise graduate students and collaborate with research partners across the College, University and beyond. The College has a history of interdisciplinary research as evidenced by inter-college, inter-university and international collaborations, and multidisciplinary tri-council funding success.For more information and how to apply, click here. Review of applications will begin September 1, 2023; however, applications will be accepted and evaluated until the position is filled. The anticipated start date is January 1, 2024.

• Associate Vice-President, Indigenous - Reporting to the President, the Associate Vice-President, Indigenous (AVPI), is a member of the University’s senior leadership team. The incumbent will work collaboratively with the President’s Executive Leadership Team to provide strategic leadership, oversight, advice, and guidance at an institutional level in support of UNBC’s commitment to Indigenous student educational achievement, community engagement and Reconciliation. Location: Prince George, BC. For more information and how to apply, click here.
• To view all current UNBC career opportunities, click here.

• Research Assistant - AHMA is conducting an environmental scan which aims to better understand Indigenous housing and how that intersects and supports Indigenous people with diverse abilities across BC. We are seeking a Research Assistant (RA) to support on a contract part-time basis (3 days a week). The RA will assist the project team members in the implementation and execution of the project “Exploring Inclusive Housing for Indigenous Peoples Living with Diverse Abilities Across British Columbia: Literature Review & Environmental Scan”. The RA will assist in conducting a literature review/environmental scan, coordination and preparation of meetings, transcription, engaging in thematic qualitative data analysis, support report writing, liaising with project team members, and supporting various duties related to the project. For more information and how to apply, click here. This posting will remain open until the position is filled.
• To view all open positions, please visit the AHMA Job Board.

• Assistant Professor, Faculty of Native Studies - seeking applications for a full-time tenure-track appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor in Indigenous health and wellness, specifically pertaining to determinants of health and well-being from the perspective of Indigenous peoples. Candidates should have knowledge and experience in areas such as, but not limited to the following: improving health and wellness in Indigenous communities; the relationship between wellness and cultural traditions and activities; and/or policy relating to Indigenous health and wellness. To view the posting and apply, click here. Open until filled.

• LE,NONET First Year Coordinator. LE,NONET is a holistic suite of programs and services (academic, financial, cultural and social) designed to support Indigenous student success. Building on this approach, the LE,NONET First Year Coordinator provides academic preparation and student support by serving as the primary point of contact in IACE and the First Peoples House for first-year undergraduate Indigenous students from faculties and programs across the university. For more information and how to apply, click here. Ongoing until filled.

• Faculty of Health Sciences - Child Health and Policy Assistant Professor. Seeking a scholar holding a PhD, and ideally having post-doctoral training or the equivalent, in a child health field relevant to public and population health policy — addressing early social determinants of health, early child development and well-being and/or children’s rights. The ideal candidate will have demonstrated strengths in the development and application of innovative and equity-centred approaches such as qualitative, quantitative, Indigenous and/or mixed methods pertaining to child studies. For more information and how to apply, click here. This position will remain open until filled.
• To view all current SFU career opportunities, click here.

• Aboriginal Cultural Safety Educator - responsible for developing and implementing Interior Health’s cultural safety framework in a way that is relevant to the values and strategic direction of the organization, with the goal of enhancing the organization’s capacity to deliver health services in a culturally safe manner. The worksite location for this position is flexible and can be located anywhere within British Columbia. For more information and to apply, click here. Open until filled.
• To explore Interior Health Careers, click here.

Recruiting Indigenous Students to work with the BC Office of the Provincial Health Officer on our Unlearning & Undoing White Supremacy Project. We have begun a two-year initiative of unlearning and undoing inherited systemic white supremacy and racism within the BC Office of the Provincial Health Officer (OPHO) that will contribute to development of a plan to address the Government of BC’s foundational commitments to rights and reconciliation across the OPHO’s mandates. Reconciliation requires being trustworthy, creating cultural safety, and making things right with the original inhabitants of these territories. The OPHO’s ongoing efforts to earn and maintain the trust of Indigenous Peoples, as well as racialized communities in BC, center on unlearning and undoing systemic white supremacy and racism inherited from the settler colonial origins of BC’s institutions. Over the next two years we will seek to:

• Illuminate which OPHO structures, policies, practices, norms, and values currently uphold systemic white supremacy and racism.
• Begin to unlearn and undo white supremacy and racism within the OPHO.
• Inform a path forward to uphold, embrace, and monitor progress towards, ‘foundational commitments’ within the OPHO’s work.

We are guided by the wisdom of Dr. Camara Jones, former president of the American Public Health Association, who launched a national campaign against racism. Her ‘Science & Practice of Anti-Racism’ framework outlines three tasks: (1) naming racism; (2) asking, how is it operating here?; and (3) organizing and strategizing to act. There is opportunity for Indigenous student(s) to contribute to elements of this work during their practicum or elective rotation. For more information, contact: kate.jongbloed@gov.bc.ca and daniele.behnsmith@gov.bc.ca

The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council (I·SPARC) is a provincial organization established for the purpose of improving the health outcomes of Indigenous people by supporting and encouraging physically active individuals, families, and communities. The programs and services delivered by I·SPARC are designed to build capacity and increase access to sport, recreation, and physical activity in First Nations, Aboriginal Friendship Centres, Métis Chartered Communities, schools, and other delivery agencies throughout British Columbia.

• To view all current employment opportunities, click here.

Are you passionate about supporting the revitalization of First Nations languages, arts and cultural heritage in BC? First Peoples’ Cultural Council (FPCC) is a First Nations-led Crown Corporation that provides grants, training, coaching and resources to communities. We are a team of Indigenous people and allies, working together in pursuit of a vision where First Nations languages, arts and cultures are thriving and passed on to future generations. We offer an open and collaborative work environment guided by Indigenous values and we are seeking people with a passion for arts, heritage, language and technology to join our team.

• To see all current employment opportunities, click here.

The BCAAFC is the umbrella organization for the Friendship Centres across BC. BC Friendship Centres work to promote, develop and deliver accessible programs and services that support Indigenous peoples living in urban areas and away from home to achieve their vision of health, wellness and prosperity.

• To view all current BCAAFC career opportunities, click here.

Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) develops and enhances opportunities for our Métis communities by implementing culturally relevant social and economic programs and services. Through teamwork, respect, dedication, accountability, integrity, and professionalism, MNBC strives to build a proud, self-governing, sustainable Nation in recognition of inherent rights for our Métis citizens, assisting in the delivery of services based on policy, process, and specified regulations. Become part of the Métis Nation BC team and take an active role in shaping the Métis Nation in BC.

• To view all available MNBC career opportunities, click here.

The FNHA is a trailblazing organization filled with meaningful work and rich with transformative learning opportunities. Here you will find a sense of direction and belonging, with those who share your drive to create change in the world and in yourself – for the better.

• To explore all current FNHA job postings, click here.

Training and Events

July 26-28, 2023 - Indigenous MD Admissions Workshop. If you are thinking about pursuing a future in medicine, this is a unique opportunity to learn how UBC can support you in your studies and connect with an inclusive, caring community of medical practitioners, students, and faculty.

The annual pre-admissions workshop for Indigenous pre-med students isn’t just for those who are attending university — it’s also for students in grades 11 and 12 who want to explore what it means to attend university and embark on a journey to becoming a healthcare professional.

The 2023 Indigenous MD Admissions Workshop will be held in person in Victoria, BC. If public health guidelines change and we are not able to hold the workshop in person, we will switch to a virtual gathering. Indigenous MD Admissions Workshop 2023 Application Form. The application deadline is Friday, July 14, 2023.

We are in the planning stages of hosting workshops in Prince George and Kelowna in September 2023. If you’d like to be on a mailing list to receive further information on these sessions, please e-mail outreach.md@ubc.ca and we will send you more information in the coming months!

Aug 12-13, 2023 - Youth Canoe Trip. The Nechako Watershed Roundtable (NWR) is inviting youth, aged 13-25, from the Nechako Watershed to participate in a guided canoe trip of the Nechako River on August 12th and 13th, 2023! This event will bring youth together to learn about the Nechako Watershed and the initiatives, communities, and organizations working to make it a healthier place. More information and the registration form can be found here. Register before Tuesday, August 1st, 2023.

August 15-16, 2023 - 47th Annual Elders Gathering. For the past 47 years (less 3 Covid-19 years), First Nations Elders have met in distinct locations of British Columbia. The first Elders Gathering began in Sto: Lo Nation hosted by the Coqualeeza Elders. Frances Harne carved a totem pole, which was used as a record keeper; places and dates were inscribed at the base of the pole, recording each Gathering.

Elders Gatherings are a wonderful time for people to visit and exchange memories and knowledge, to create new friendships and to renew old ones. These Gatherings provide a chance to gain perspective on how other First Nations live.

The Basic purpose of the Gathering is the need for Elders throughout the province to have inter-social and community links that bind them together as a Nation. It allows them to intermingle with like-minded, like-aged individuals and their families, to reveal common grounds that strengthen those links.

Our Elders possess all the wisdom of the ages - knowledge and experiences that the younger generations need to guide them through life. It is very important that this event continues and that our Elders' legacy is passed on to each generation that follows. With the world we live in becoming increasingly modern by the minute, we need to provide the balance that comes from remembering the past though our Elders lives. To learn more, click here.

September 11- 15, 2023 | Vancouver, BC - Healing Our Spirit Worldwide – The Ninth Gathering. The Ninth Gathering will take place on the the unceded and ancestral territory of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) People. It is hosted by the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), First Nations Health Council (FNHC) and First Nations Health Directors Association (FNHDA) in coordination with the International Indigenous Council for Healing Our Spirit Worldwide (IICHOSW). To learn more and register, click here.

Call for Papers and Unique Opportunities

Request for Proposals: Environmental scan of Indigenous engagement guidelines for health research and program evaluation. The BC SUPPORT Unit invites proposals from Indigenous-led organizations or individuals to lead an environmental scan. The scan will review Canadian guidelines and protocols to support Indigenous engagement in health research and evaluation. Applicants based in British Columbia are preferred. Indigenous community members need to be included in health research that affects them. That’s why the BC SUPPORT Unit is issuing this request for proposals to be led by Indigenous organizations or individuals. The scan must be grounded in culturally safe approaches and reflect the needs of distinct First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities in BC. The report developed through the environmental scan will support planning and development of provincial Indigenous engagement resources. Closing time and date: Monday, July 31, 2023, by 9am PDT.

The Turtle Island Journal of Indigenous Health team is looking for new members! No prior experience is required to apply. These are remote positions open to students and community members across Turtle Island who are interested in promoting TIJIH's vision: Respectful co-learning between Indigenous ways of knowing and western science; Collaborating and partnering with Indigenous Peoples in knowledge generation and capacity-building; Building a community of practice that honours relationality as a model of high-impact engagement. To learn more and apply, click here.

Share your Views: Participate in the CIHR Institute of Gender and Health's Listening Tour. The Institute of Gender and Health (IGH) wants to hear from you! Beginning in spring 2023, the IGH team will travel to major cities across Canada to meet with researchers, including trainees and early career researchers, community organizations, healthcare professionals and many other partners, with options for virtual participation. For more information, Townhall dates and registration, or to complete the online survey, click here.

First Peoples' Cultural Council (FPPC) Grant funding supports communities to revitalize their Indigenous languages, arts and cultural heritage in BC. To view all available grants, click here.

The Canada Council for the Arts champions and invests in artistic excellence through grants, services, prizes and payments to professional Canadian artists, groups and arts organizations. For a list of all available grants, click here.

Creating, Knowing and Sharing: The Arts and Cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. This program supports Indigenous individuals, groups, Indigenous-led arts organizations and arts/cultural sector development organizations that foster a vital and resilient Indigenous arts ecosystem. Program Components:

• Travel - grants support travel costs to attend significant events within Canada or abroad that advance your professional development, enable you or the artists you represent to access new markets or build national and international presence. Deadline: Any time before your departure date.
• Small-Scale Activities - funds activities that will advance your artistic career or practice. Deadline: Any time before the start date of your project.
• Short-Term Projects - grants provide support for any combination of eligible Creating, Knowing and Sharing activities for projects lasting up to 12 months. Deadlines: September 20, December 13, 2023 and March 20, 2024.
• Indigenous Organizations - grants support the exploration of innovative strategies for Indigenous creative and cultural expression, and related administrative activities. Deadline: September 20, 2023.

• Professional Development grants - assist professional artists, cultural practitioners, production and technical personnel, and arts administrators with specific, short-term learning activities or opportunities to advance their practice or career. Activities should lead to clearly articulated learning or career outcomes, goals, or objectives. Deadline: August 31, 2023.
• All BC Arts Council Grant Programs

• Healing Our Spirit Worldwide 2023 Logo Contest. Are you an Indigenous person interested in developing a logo for an International Indigenous Gathering being held in Vancouver? Eligibility, prizes, and more available here. Submission Deadline: July 13, 2022.
• Healing Our Spirit Worldwide 2023 Youth Logo Contest. Are you an Indigenous Youth (16 to 29 years old) interested in developing a logo for one of the streams for the International Indigenous Gathering being held in Vancouver? Eligibility, prizes, and more available here. Submission Deadline: July 13, 2022.

• Applications for International Overdose Awareness Day Grants Now Open. The FNHA is offering community-based grants of $2,000 for First Nations communities and First Nations Health Service Organizations that provide wellness and harm reduction services to Indigenous people in BC to hold an event, gathering ​​or ceremony on or around Aug. 31, 2023. For more information and how to apply, click here.

• Environmental Contaminants Program - supports First Nations projects that explore the link between human health and environmental contaminants. For more information and how to apply, click here.

• Mental Health & Wellness Fund - supports Nations and aggregations of First Nations to come together to plan, design and deliver a full continuum of culture and strength-based mental health and wellness services, including prevention and early intervention. For more information and how to apply, click here.

Community Gaming Grants - provide $140 million annually to not-for-profit organizations throughout B.C., to support their delivery of ongoing programs and services that meet the needs of their communities. For more information about these grants, including eligibility criteria, grant amounts, how and when to apply and more, click here.

• Public Safety - Organizations within this sector deliver programs that enhance and support the safety of the community. Apply between July 1 and August 31.
• Environment - Organizations within this sector deliver programs that revitalize, protect or provide education about British Columbia’s ecosystems and environment or that address animal welfare. Programs that primarily support research, lobbying or political action are not eligible. Apply between July 1 and August 31.
• Human and Social Services - Organizations within this sector deliver programs that improve the quality of life in a community by supporting the wellbeing of children, youth, families and/ or seniors; by addressing equality issues (e.g., gender, LGBTQ2S+, race, etc.); by addressing the unmet needs of under-served groups; or, by providing public outreach and education regarding important social issues. Apply between August 1 and November 30.

The TELUS Indigenous Communities Fund offers grants up to $50,000 for Indigenous-led social, health and community programs. To find out more and apply, click here. Closes on October 13 at 23:59 (local time).

New Relationship Trust offers a range of funding initiatives supporting First Nation communities, organizations, and individuals through their journey towards greater self-sufficiency. Click here for an overview of all funding programs.

• Nation Building Grants - the Nation Building program provides multi-year funding opportunities to First Nations and Tribal Councils in British Columbia to support their nation building activities according to their self-determined priorities. A project or initiative meant to strengthen the institutional, governance, and community capacities in reclaiming and rebuilding resiliency, self-determination, and sovereignty, within each Nation’s own context is considered an eligible project. Deadline: Dec 1, 2023.
• Youth Grants - the Youth Grant program provides funding opportunities to youth groups in First Nation communities in British Columbia to support inclusiveness, belonging, physical and mental well-being, cultural, traditional, creative, and entrepreneurial activities all geared toward giving First Nation youth the tools, experiences, confidence, motivation, and teachings to be secure in their First Nation identity. Deadline: Dec 1, 2023.
• Elder Grants - the Elder Grant program provides funding opportunities to elder groups in First Nation communities in British Columbia to improve access and the quality of elder experiences and activities for maintaining inclusion, belonging, cultural, emotional, mobility, health, and physical well-being. Deadline: Dec 1, 2023.
• Language Grants - the Language Grant program provides funding opportunities to First Nation communities in British Columbia for initiatives that revitalize First Nation languages and supports activities that build capacity to encourage and create new fluent speakers. Deadline: Dec 1, 2023.

• Interim Applications for time-limited funding under Sections 8 and 9 of the Indigenous Languages Act 2023-2025. The call for Interim Applications for time-limited funding under Sections 8 and 9 of the Act, developed in partnership with the Assembly of First Nations, is intended to support First Nations efforts in addressing the priorities they have identified to reclaim, revitalize, maintain and strengthen First Nations languages and First Nations governed initiatives in collaboration with federal departments and agencies, and other First Nations, provincial or territorial governments as desired and appropriate. To be eligible for funding, you must be a First Nation organization within Canada. “First Nation organization”, refers to an organization owned and controlled by First Nation persons, including a First Nation-owned corporation or a First Nation-controlled non-profit organization, that directly delivers language revitalization services or that otherwise supports the delivery of language revitalization services. First Nation applicants applying to the Department of Canadian Heritage are required to read the Interim Application Guidelines in its entirety for time-limited funding under Sections 8 and 9 of the Act and contact the Department of Canadian Heritage to request an application package and submit the required documentation. For how to apply and contact information, click here. Application Deadline: Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis for 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 fiscal years.
• Legacy Fund – Building Communities through Arts and Heritage. Building Communities through Arts and Heritage - Legacy Fund component provides funding for community-initiated capital projects, intended for community use. Recipients may receive up to 50 per cent of eligible project expenses up to a maximum of $500,000. For more information and how to apply, click here. Application deadline: Projects must be submitted before the anniversary date of the event or personality to be commemorated.

The Northern BC Indigenous Athlete Grants were created through a partnership between Engage Sport North, I·SPARC, and Local Rental Solutions to assist amateur athletes and teams, who are of Indigenous ancestry and residing in Northern British Columbia, in their pursuits in competitive sports. The purpose of the grants is to provide financial assistance to Indigenous athletes to travel and participate in competitive sport. Grants will be awarded to Indigenous athletes competing in any sport, however, individuals or teams benefiting from this grant program must operate or be located in the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality and/or any of the following Regional Districts; Central Coast, Cariboo, North Coast, Kitimat-Stikine, Builkley-Nechako, Fraser-Fort George and Peace River. This is a revolving grant and is reviewed every 8 to 12 weeks. For more information and to apply, click here.

The Doulas for Aboriginal Families Grant Program (DAFGP) provides grants to increase access to full-spectrum doula services for Indigenous families residing in BC (on- and off-reserve). The DAFGP is offered by the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres, First Nations Health Authority, and the BC Ministry of Health. The goal of the program is to increase healthy birth outcomes for Indigenous families by removing the cost barrier to accessing doula services. The grant program provides Indigenous families living in BC up to $1,000.00 (maximum) of coverage for full spectrum doula support with each pregnancy. For more information and to apply, click here.

The Support Network for Indigenous Women and Women of Colour (SNIWWOC). SNIWWOC is a Canadian non-profit organization committed to the empowerment of women with food, art, and education. SNIWWOC operates from a holistic and integrative service model that addresses the social, cultural and political realities of women who identify as black, Indigenous, and people of colour (BIPOC). Headquartered in Victoria BC, they offer programs and services in BC, Alberta, and Ontario. Click here to learn more, access services and get involved!

Are you an Indigenous graduate student studying at a BC institution? Submit a selfie of yourself outside, with a short description of yourself (community, institution, program, research interests, etc.) and enter for a chance to win a $50 gift card to your institution’s bookstore! Must be a registered member of the BC NEIHR. Email bcneihr@uvic.ca for more details.

To find out more or to get involved please visit the National website at https://circlesforreconciliation.ca/ or for pre-registration information, visit https://circlesforreconciliation.ca/pre-registration-information/.

IndigiNews is dedicated to covering the news in a way that allows for your stories to be heard, understood and respected. IndigiNews was created through a partnership between Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) and The Discourse. The goal of this partnership is two-fold: first, to provide journalism that serves and is driven by what local communities say they want. Second, to experiment with new business models for digital local news that contribute to the long-term sustainability of independent Indigenous news in Canada. Click here to subscribe to the Indiginews Newsletter and/or to sign up for the email course. You can help decolonize the media by becoming an IndigiNews supporter, visit https://indiginews.com/support-us to donate today.

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