Joint Statement: CIHR celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day 2023

On June 21, National Indigenous Peoples Day, and every day, CIHR celebrates Indigenous researchers and the impact they are making towards advancing the health and well-being of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples across Canada. We thank those who are leading the way and encourage those who are just beginning their careers in health research.

CIHR prioritizes Indigenous self-determination and leadership in health research and continues to foster respectful and meaningful relationships with communities, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and researchers. Reconciliation in research requires work; and CIHR is deeply committed to accelerating health research that is led by and engaged with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. The CIHR Institute of Indigenous Peoples’ Health and the Indigenous Health Research team drive this work forward, with the support from all Institutes and others at CIHR.

The CIHR Strategic Plan 2021–2031, which was informed by engagement with Indigenous partners and communities, prioritizes accelerating self-determination of Indigenous Peoples in the health research environment and respecting the rights of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.

Indigenous community-led health research that focuses on resilience, well-being and Indigenous Ways of Knowing is key in achieving equitable health outcomes. It is essential that Indigenous health research be led by Indigenous Peoples, while embracing and respecting the distinct rights, knowledges, culture and history of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. To ensure a collective understanding of health and well-being, we must continue to listen and work with communities to strengthen Indigenous health research and knowledge mobilization.

Thank you,

Michael J. Strong, MD, FRCPC, FAAN, FCAHS
President, CIHR

Jeff Moore
Associate Vice-President, Government and External Relations, CIHR

Date modified:

2023-06-21