FIRST INDIGENOUS NURSES’ DAY: Walking the Path of Miyupimaatisiiun
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Today, on First Indigenous Nurses’ Day, we proudly honour the Cree nurses who serve our communities with compassion, skill, and cultural strength. Their work is not only indispensable to the health of individuals and families, but also to the wellness and resilience of all Cree communities.
Nursing in Eeyou Istchee carries a profound responsibility. It is a calling rooted in relationships, humility, and the belief that care must support the whole person, including physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. Cree nurses bring cultural knowledge, language, and community understanding that ensures care is grounded in the realities and strengths of our people. Their presence reinforces the path toward Miyupimaatisiiun, the Cree vision of lifelong wellness.
MESSAGE FROM JEANNIE PELLETIER, Chairperson, CBHSSJB
“Today, we recognize the first Indigenous Nurses’ Day, but we also look ahead to the future of healthcare in Eeyou Istchee. As someone who has served our communities as a nurse, I know the impact that Cree nurses have on the health and wellbeing of our people. The Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay is dedicated to fostering the growth of future nurses by creating opportunities, reducing barriers, and encouraging Cree people, youth and adults alike, to consider a career in nursing. Initiatives such as the Springboard Program, developed within our organization in partnership with John Abbott College, reflect this commitment to building a strong, culturally grounded nursing workforce for the years to come.”
The Profession
For Indigenous nurses, caring for the community is not simply a job, it is an expression of identity, values, and leadership. Their work is built on:
- Relationships that honour family, community, and connection,
- Deep listening rooted in respect and cultural understanding,
- Courage and resilience in times of challenge,
- A steady presence during the most meaningful moments in people’s lives,
- And cultural grounding that strengthens trust in our health system.
Through their dedication, Cree nurses support births, guide families through difficult times, celebrate healing, and help individuals regain their strength. They are healers, educators, advocates, and leaders.
MEET DESIREE PETAWABANO, Nurse Counsellor in Mistissini, she has been a nurse for over 13 years
“It is often said that it takes a community to raise a child. For me, this teaching reflects the strength of my Cree cultural roots. They have provided me with a strong foundation grounded in Cree family values—truth, respect, patience, family, and the responsibility to teach and care for one another.
These values guide how I live, how I learn, and how I practice nursing. Nursing is not only a profession to me; it is a continuation of our traditional ways of caring for one another. It goes far beyond the clinical care. True nursing includes building meaningful relationships with individuals, families, and communities. It means advocacy, compassion, and providing care that is culturally safe and grounded in respect.
As Indigenous nurses, we understand the importance of connection—to our people, our language, and our traditions. Being able to provide care in our own Indigenous languages fosters trust, understanding, and healing. It honors who we are and where we come from.
On Indigenous Nurses Day, we recognize that nursing plays a vital role in strengthening our communities. Through care rooted in culture, we promote wellness, resilience, and hope for future generations.”
Indigenous Nurses Day Message from DPSQA Health (Director of Nursing) – Nancy Shecapio-Blacksmith
"Today, April 10, on Indigenous Nurses Day, we proudly honor the heart, resilience, and dedication of our Indigenous nurses across Region 18 and beyond.
Your work embodies the deep values of care, compassion, and community connection that lie at the core of Indigenous knowledge and healing traditions. Each of you brings an irreplaceable perspective that strengthens our health system, blending professional excellence with cultural understanding and empathy.
As healthcare leaders and caregivers, you are the bridge between modern medicine and traditional ways of knowing. You guide patients and families with respect, grounding our patience in the principles of trust, humanity, and holistic wellness.
Today, we celebrate not only your contributions but the spirit of nursing that lives through them, one that honours your heritage and inspires us all to walk together toward equity and well-being for our communities.
Meegwetch, for everything you do to nurture healing and hope across our communities.
I also want to thank my two Assistant Directors of Nursing, Sophie Leclercq and Frederic Legendre who have been doing an amazing job to “hold the fort” while I am replacing as Regional Proximity Director for the Waskaganish Pole by interim."
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Interested in Becoming a Nurse?
If you or someone you know would like to pursue a career in nursing, speak with your local education services or community employment counsellor. Indigenous nurses continue to transform health care in our region, and there is always room for more.
Guided by Culture, Grounded in Care
Cree nurses carry forward generations of caregiving rooted in Cree values and worldview. Their work strengthens:
- Trust between families and the health system
- Cultural safety within our services
- Holistic approaches to healing
- Pathways for future Indigenous nurses
Their presence ensures that health care in Eeyou Istchee reflects who we are as a people.
To All Indigenous Nurses Across Eeyou Istchee
Today, we honour you.
Thank you for your leadership.
Thank you for your care.
Thank you for walking with our communities every day.
Your work shapes the future of health in Eeyou Istchee and strengthens the wellbeing of generations to come.
Resources
Our family values originate from our Eeyou/Eenou philosophy/Iiyiyiuiyihtuwin (Eeyou/Eenou way of life), traditional values and customs that come fr
