AHS hosts events for National Indigenous Peoples Week

RED DEER – Canadians will be recognizing the diverse cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities by celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Week, June 18 to 22.

Alberta Health Services (AHS) has planned a number of events throughout the week. The public is welcome to attend the following:

Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre

• Wednesday June 20: Smudge ceremony in the Cultural Room starting at 2 p.m.

Wetaskiwin Hospital and Care Centre:

• Thursday June 21: Displays in the main lobby. Drum and dance in the main lobby and long-term care centre starting at noon. Smudge ceremony in the Cultural Room starting at 2 p.m.

Ponoka:

• Thursday June 21: Displays in the main lobby of the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre. Traditional Indigenous foods served in the dining room.
• Friday June 22: Smudge ceremony at Centennial Centre starting at 11 a.m.

Note: Should attendance at any smudge ceremony exceed room capacity, priority will be given to patients. Please arrive before the start of the smudge ceremonies.

An Indigenous health playlist, found on the AHS YouTube channel, includes educational Indigenous health videos for AHS staff and communities.

Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.

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