NATIONAL AWARD RECOGNIZES CBHSSJB'S LEADERSHIP IN INDIGENOUS GOVERNANCE
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The Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay (CBHSSJB) received the National Indigenous Good Governance Award from Fulbright Canada's Honouring Nations Canada on Monday, August 24. This award recognizes Indigenous-led governance and innovation that strengthen communities, support self-determination and reflect Indigenous knowledge, values and traditions.
Chairperson Jeannie Pelletier accepted the award on behalf of the CBHSSJB in Victoria, British Columbia, on the traditional lands of the Songhees and Xʷsepsəm Nations. She also presented the organization's history, mission and work to Indigenous leaders from across Canada.
Reflecting on the recognition, Pelletier said: “Miyupimaatisiiun teaches us that wellness is relational; it lives in our families, our communities, our lands, and our responsibilities to one another. I want to thank my patients who taught me these important lessons.”
The selection committee, made up of respected Indigenous leaders from across Canada, recognized the CBHSSJB's leadership, innovation and cultural foundation. They also highlighted the extensive community consultations that shaped the Strategic Regional Plan (SRP) as a strong example of Indigenous-led governance.
The SRP reflects input from all nine Cree communities, including youth, Elders, tallymen, clients, families and frontline workers. Their shared vision guides the organization's goals and actions.
By bringing together modern health care and traditional knowledge, the CBHSSJB continues to strengthen land-based healing, traditional foods, Cree midwifery, youth protection and the work of traditional healers and knowledge keepers. It also advances initiatives such as the NISK Model to provide care that is coordinated, culturally safe and rooted in community needs.
The CBHSSJB thanks Honouring Nations Canada and Fulbright Canada for this recognition, Stella Lameboy for her compelling submission and all staff members who are the heart of our work, embodying each day a vision of care grounded in dignity, compassion, culture, and commitment to our people.
This recognition reinforces the importance of Indigenous leadership and accountability to the communities we serve. It inspires us to keep building, healing and working together for future generations.
