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Indigenous Health

The Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) of McMaster University strives to respond to the significant health disparities that exist between Indigenous peoples and non-Indigenous Canadians.

The Faculty is committed to the development and implementation of a comprehensive, ‘whole-of-Faculty’ Indigenous health initiative that reflects the principles and values of a reconciliation-based approach, as documented by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

The creation of the Indigenous Health Initiative, the creation of the role of the Faculty’s associate dean of Indigenous Health, the approval of the Initiative’s strategic plan and the opening of the Indigenous Health Learning Lodge (IHLL) are first steps toward the Faculty of Health Sciences’ commitment to the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

A stethoscope that is colourfully braided

Information Box Group

Dr. Bernice Downey
Associate Dean, Indigenous Health

Message from the Associate Dean

Aanii-Seh-goh-Boozhoo-Tansi

On behalf of our team here in the Indigenous Health Learning Lodge, I would like to welcome everyone to the Faculty of Health Sciences (FHS) 2022-23 academic year! Last year was a year like no other, with many challenges and changes in response to the global pandemic. It was also an important year for Indigenous health education within the FHS that began with structural enhancements, including new Indigenous health leadership roles, a commitment to the ongoing work of our Indigenous Health Initiative and the funding of the Learning Lodge.

Indigenous News

Indigeneous Circle shot from seating area looking at forest area.

Indigenous Events

Land Based Learning

Indigenous Health, Workshops