Dialogues for Promoting Indigenous Spirituality and Culture
Changing the System
Indigenous Peoples experience kidney disease at rates up to four times higher than the general population of Canada.
And yet, they are often left behind by medical systems that traditionally lack supports grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing. The physical demands of treatment are only part of their journey, where emotional, spiritual, and social support is needed to ensure holistic health and healing.
As part of St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton’s (SJHH) commitment to reconciliation, it is overhauling many of its programs and institutions to meet the needs of Indigenous Peoples. This includes a new Indigenous Cultural Liaison position dedicated to the Kidney Program. This qualified Indigenous professional will support with medical care and fill specific gaps in the program in an Indigenous context, such as access to nutrition, safe housing, family supports, and community connection. The Liaison will collaborate closely with the new Indigenous Health Team and clinicians across Brantford, White Pines Wellness Centre on Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, and St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton (Charlton and King Campuses). They will build care plans rooted in Indigenous worldviews, ensuring patients feel seen, understood, and respected.
The Indigenous Reconciliation Fund (IRF) is proud to support SJHH in ensuring Indigenous patients have a trusted and culturally grounded advocate by their side to build trust-based relationships and create a healing environment where holistic care is truly possible. This position will further ease the spiritual burden of those spending hours in a treatment chair each week and ensure that it is a safe, welcoming and inclusive space.
Diocese of Hamilton
