June 21 2025 – Paul Adams
Today, we recognize and celebrate the incredible diversity, resilience, and deep knowledge of Indigenous Peoples across what is now known as British Columbia and beyond. National Indigenous Peoples Day is a time to reflect on the rich cultural traditions, teachings, and healing practices that continue to shape and strengthen our communities.
In every corner of rural BC, Indigenous Peoples have been stewards of the land and knowledge keepers since time immemorial. Their understanding of health and wellness is rooted in relationships: relationships to land, to family, to ancestors, and to community. These principles offer essential guidance as we seek more just, equitable, and sustainable rural health systems.
At the BC Rural Health Network, we also recognize that this day must be more than celebration. It must be a time of acknowledgement, accountability, and action. The harms of colonialism are not just historical, they are ongoing. We see it in the health inequities faced by Indigenous people. We see it in the underfunding of rural Indigenous health services, in the continued racism within healthcare systems, and in systems that too often dismiss Indigenous voices.
We reaffirm our commitment to challenging racism, hate, and division in all forms. We acknowledge that structural inequities in health care cannot be solved without Indigenous leadership, cultural safety, and the right to self-determined care. Reconciliation in health means listening to and respecting Indigenous-led solutions, investing in Indigenous health authorities, and building systems that are rooted in trust.
We are proud to stand with Indigenous partners and communities who are leading transformative work. From land-based healing programs to culturally grounded mental health supports, these efforts show the way forward. As a provincial network, we will continue to learn, to partner, and to support action that advances health equity across all rural and remote regions.
On this National Indigenous Peoples Day, let us all reflect on the history we inherit and the responsibilities we share. Let us commit to walking alongside Indigenous communities, not with tokenism and not only in words but in meaningful, ongoing action.
With respect and solidarity,
The BC Rural Health Network
