fBy Rosalind Russell – A new relationship protocol that looks to improve health and wellness for the 39 Anishinabek Nation member First Nations has been signed.
Leaders with the Anishinabek Nation and Ontario Health gathered on Thursday to sign the partnership.
They’ll be working together to address health disparities, promote cultural safety, and enhance access to quality healthcare services.
“The Anishinabek Nation has maintained a strong working relationship with the Government of Ontario, which was effectively enhanced through the previous relationship protocol agreement with Cancer Care Ontario signed in 2013,” says Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige. “We are confident that this new relationship protocol with Ontario Health will assist in expanding the scope of collaboration in addressing critical areas of health. There are significant challenges across the healthcare system that greatly impact our citizens, and this relationship protocol will provide opportunities to dialogue and jointly determine specific solutions that work for First Nations.”
Matthew Anderson, President and CEO, Ontario Health says the relationship protocol is an important initiative of Ontario Health’s First Nations, Inuit, Métis and Urban Indigenous Health Framework.
“Our partnership with the Anishinabek Nation is crucial to meeting the health needs of Anishinabek Nation communities – from Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn in the east to Aamjiwnaang First Nation in the south, and Lake Nipigon in the north,” says Anderson. “We are committed to reducing health inequities and improving health care outcomes for all. This includes supporting First Nations in the design and delivery of programs and services across the province.”
The signing was held in Chippewas of Rama First Nation, a location officials say is historically known as “the gathering place” where great meetings were held, important decisions were made, and where travellers rested before continuing their journeys.
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