Photo caption: (from left) Brant Community Healthcare System’s Michelle Bomberry, Indigenous Health Manager and Gayle Myke, Indigenous Navigator and Indigenous Advisory.
Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS) is proud to introduce its Indigenous Health Strategy (2025–2028), a meaningful step forward in strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities and advancing culturally safe, equitable care.
Grounded in respect, gratitude, and Indigenous teachings, the strategy begins by honouring the Ohèn:ton Karihwatéhkwen (Words Before All Else) and Anishnaabe traditions of Thanksgiving — reminding us that all good work starts with acknowledging connection: to each other, to the land, and to the Creator. BCHS extends heartfelt thanks to the many Indigenous patients, families, staff, community members, and partners who contributed their voices and experiences to shape this work.
Initiated in the Fall of 2024 in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and finalized in Fall 2025, the strategy reflects extensive collaboration with local First Nations and urban Indigenous communities, including the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and Six Nations of the Grand River. Together, they identified priorities aligned with BCHS’ organizational pillars and a shared vision for improved care.
At its core, the strategy is guided by the Two Row Wampum (Kaswentha) — a powerful symbol of partnership that represents Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples travelling side by side in mutual respect, without interfering in each other’s paths. This teaching underpins a commitment to integrating Indigenous healing practices alongside Western health care in a way that honours both.
The strategy is organized around seven key pillars:
- Creating a culture of safety through mandatory cultural awareness training and ongoing education for staff
- Enhancing traditional Indigenous medicine, including access to Knowledge Keepers, ceremonies, and dedicated healing spaces
- Optimizing Indigenous patient care with culturally responsive clinical services and expanded physician and navigator roles
- Supporting holistic wellness through culturally meaningful patient programs and activities
- Strengthening communications to raise awareness of Indigenous health services and stories
- Building an Indigenous workforce through targeted recruitment, mentorship, and leadership development
- Deepening community engagement to foster trust and collaboration with Indigenous partners
Together, these pillars reflect a holistic approach to health — recognizing the importance of physical, emotional, spiritual, and environmental well-being.
The strategy also acknowledges that improving Indigenous health outcomes requires more than clinical changes. It calls for systemic shifts, including policy development, cross-sector collaboration, sustainable funding, and a deeper understanding of the historical and ongoing impacts of colonization on Indigenous peoples.
Over the next three years, BCHS will focus on building trust, expanding access to culturally safe services, and creating a true “circle of care” that includes patients, families, healthcare providers, and community partners. Regular evaluation and community feedback will guide continuous improvement.
As this work moves forward, BCHS remains committed to walking alongside Indigenous communities in the spirit of the Two Row Wampum — together, in respect, friendship, and shared purpose.
To view the entire strategy, please visit: www.bchsys.org/indigenoushealthstrategy
Nya:wen. Miigwech. Thank you.