May 30, 2024
LAC LA BICHE — Alberta Health Services (AHS) and local Indigenous Elders are partnering to host a five-hour public event tomorrow (May 31) at the William J. Cadzow Lac La Biche Healthcare Centre, featuring the raising of a tipi and a pipe ceremony.
The free event, which starts at 10 a.m., will also include traditional Indigenous food, dancers, and drummers.
Judylynn Ratcliffe, the local AHS Indigenous wellness coordinator, says AHS and local Elders are working to ensure the day is guided by Indigenous perspectives and values, and is enjoyed in a safe, inclusive space for collaboration and learning, built upon principles of trust and respect.
“This is not just a symbolic gesture; it's a commitment to creating real change,” says Ratcliffe. “By coming together in the spirit of openness and humility, we can work towards a future where all members of our community feel equally valued and respected.”
The day aims to provide an opportunity for meaningful dialogue, cultural exchange and relationship-building between the healthcare centre and local Indigenous communities, fostering a stronger sense of understanding, mutual respect and collaboration.
“Embracing and honouring Indigenous traditions is not only a recognition of our past but also a step towards a more inclusive and diverse future,” says Brian Jean, Minister of Energy and Minerals, and MLA for Fort McMurray-Lac La Biche.
Tomorrow’s event is part of an ongoing journey towards reconciliation. June is National Indigenous Peoples Month.
“This day will represent a significant step forward in our journey towards reconciliation,” says Stacy Greening, Chief Zone Officer in the AHS North Zone. “We recognize the importance of acknowledging the past and building a future based on mutual understanding and respect. Through initiatives like this, we hope to foster stronger bonds.”
The healthcare centre is located at 9110 93 St.
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. Our mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans. Our current focus is on reducing emergency department wait times, improving EMS response times, increasing access to surgeries, and improving patient flow.
