National Day for Truth and Reconciliation marked with new progress on Calls to Action, community-led learning, and expanded staff training

Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) observed the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with the release of its second annual report on the Hospital’s ongoing response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action.

“We are excited to announce the release of our year two report, reaffirming our commitment to the 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission,” said Dr. Rhonda Crocker Ellacott, President & CEO, TBRHSC and CEO, Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute. “Patients are at the center of everything we do… Together, we can build a healthier future grounded in understanding and respect.”

What’s in the Year-Two Report

This year’s report emphasizes Call to Action #24, which focuses on cultural training for professional staff. It also highlights work aligned with Calls to Action 10, 19, 23, 24, and 83, showcasing how departments across the Hospital are integrating cultural safety, inclusivity, and partnership-led practices into daily care.

• Call #24 (Cultural Training): Progress toward ensuring all professional staff have access to and complete culturally safe training rooted in local knowledge and Indigenous-led guidance.

• Call #10 (Education) & #19 (Health Gaps): Initiatives that strengthen pathways for Indigenous learners and enhance data-informed efforts to reduce health disparities.

• Call #23 (Workforce): Steps to recruit, retain, and support Indigenous health professionals, including mentorship and career development.

• Call #83 (Commemoration): Activities that honour Survivors, support remembrance, and elevate community voices within hospital spaces.

“Together, we have deepened our cultural safety training, expanded spiritual and healing practices, and supported the voices of Indigenous-led initiatives,” said Dr. Miranda Lesperance, Vice President, Indigenous Collaboration, Equity & Inclusion. “This year’s report places a significant focus on Call to Action #24… reinforcing our dedication to a culturally safe and responsive community for all.”

Community-Led Learning & Remembrance

To honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Hospital’s Miskwaa Biidaaban (Indigenous Collaboration) department organized September events that brought learning and remembrance into the hospital:

• Community panels from Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) on the legacy of Residential Schools.

• An engaging beading opportunity for staff to learn, reflect, and connect.

• An educational session with Elder and Residential School Survivor Peter Sackaney, centring Survivor experience and truth-telling.

These events supported the launch of the report and served to recognize Survivors while remembering those who never returned home.

Why It Matters for Care in Northwestern Ontario

With many patients and families from First Nations and Indigenous communities across Northwestern Ontario seeking care in Thunder Bay, culturally safe practice is not optional—it’s essential. The report outlines how staff training, Indigenous-led healing practices, and stronger partnerships can:

• Improve patient experience and trust;

• Address health inequities with data and community guidance;

• Create inclusive care environments that reflect language, ceremony, family presence, and traditional practices.

“Reconciliation begins with acknowledging the truth,” said Patricia Lang, Chair, TBRHSC Board of Directors. “We are dedicated to creating an environment that provides care for each patient and family in a way that resonates with them.”

Partnerships & Timeline

The report includes a timeline of Indigenous health initiatives to date and recognizes the role of community partnerships—from Elders and Knowledge Keepers to regional organizations—in shaping policies, training, and care pathways that honour culture, uphold dignity, and improve outcomes.

What’s Next

TBRHSC states it will continue to advance Call #24 by expanding access to mandatory, high-quality cultural training, monitoring completion, and embedding learnings into everyday clinical practice. Additional priorities tied to Calls 10, 19, 23, and 83 will continue through collaborative programming, hiring initiatives, and ongoing community engagement.

Editor’s note: Readers can contact TBRHSC’s Miskwaa Biidaaban department for more information on Indigenous health initiatives and upcoming learning opportunities.