Statement from Dr. Margo Greenwood and Dr. Michael J. Strong: CIHR celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day 2022

CIHR celebrates Indigenous health research and the researchers who contribute to improving the health and wellbeing of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples in Canada. We salute those who led the way and encourage those who are just beginning their careers in health research. We prioritize accelerating the self-determination of Indigenous Peoples in health research. Fostering relationships and working closely with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities is therefore a necessity for CIHR.

The Indigenous population, while large and growing, is not homogeneous. Canada constitutionally recognizes First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples as rights holders. First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples have distinct cultures, languages and histories. Understanding this diversity and anchoring our research in community in meaningful ways enables us to better serve not just Indigenous communities, but all Canadians.

With the CIHR Institute of Indigenous Peoples’ Health and the Indigenous Health Research Team, we are pursuing ambitious goals to improve the health and wellbeing of all Indigenous Peoples in every part of Canada. CIHR is supporting Indigenous community-led health research that focuses on resilience, wellness and Indigenous Ways of Knowing. This includes encouraging and supporting First Nations, Inuit and Métis youth and early career researchers to play a growing role in this space and to lead the way for the next generation.

Listening to and partnering with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, individuals, and communities, we hold fast to the government’s commitment to advancing reconciliation and meaningful engagement with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.

Miigwetch, Marci, Nakummek, Merci, Thank you

Dr. Margo Greenwood, O.C., PhD
Interim Scientific Director, CIHR Institute of Indigenous Peoples’ Health

Michael J. Strong, MD, FRCPC, FAAN, FCAHS
President, CIHR

Date modified:

2022-06-21