St. Joseph’s Care Group Affirming Commitment to Working with Indigenous Peoples
Benjamin Morriseau, Artist – Spiritual Gatherings 
Chief Peter Collins 
Elder Ernie Kwandibens 
Paul Francis, SJCG Director of Indigenous Relations
Rob Spade, Knowledge Keeper 
Tracy Buckler, SJCG CEO
THUNDER BAY, ON – June 17, 2019 was a day of celebration as St. Joseph’s Care Group affirmed its commitment to working with Indigenous Peoples.
The day began with a traditional ceremony opening the Spiritual Gathering Lodge, Nigoos-aat-awin, led by Elder Ernie Kwandibens, an Elder from Whitesand First Nation. An original artwork called “Spiritual Gathering,” painted by local artist Benjamin Morrisseau, is a highlight of the Lodge. Rob Spade, Knowledge Keeper, provided song and drumming.
Next, Tracy Buckler, President & CEO of St. Joseph’s Care Group, kicked off a week of Indigenous celebrations culminating in National Indigenous Peoples Day, with a message of reconciliation and welcoming.
“St. Joseph’s Care Group affirms its commitment to working with Indigenous Peoples, and one way that we are demonstrating our commitment is through the appointment of our first Director of Indigenous Relations, Paul Francis Jr.”
said Buckler
Born and raised in Thunder Bay, with roots in Mnidoo Mnising (Manitoulin Island) and a member of Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory , Paul is looking forward to the work that he and his team will lead.
“We want Indigenous Peoples to speak about St. Joseph’s Care Group as a place where they can access health care that is culturally-appropriate and safe, where barriers have been removed,”
said Francis who also looks forward to expanding upon work already underway including access to traditional ceremonies, system navigation, and partnerships.
St. Joseph’s Care Group recognizes the importance of listening to the voices of Indigenous clients, their family members and community partners in the work that we do.
“Indigenous peoples will define what actions we need to take using the Truth and Reconciliation Health Care Calls to Action as a guide for this important work,”
said Buckler.
This is also the kickoff for a week of celebrations culminating in National Indigenous Day on Friday, June 21. Activities are open to clients and their loved ones, staff, and volunteers. They include:
- Smudging at various SJCG sites
- Women’s Jingle Dress Teachings
- Wassaykeejik Drum and Womens Jingle Dress Dance
- Dance and Hand Drum Teachings
