Joint Statement: National Indigenous History Month 2025

June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada – a time to intentionally reflect on and deepen our understanding of the cultures, traditions, and lived experiences of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples; collectively referred to as Indigenous Peoples. It is also a time to celebrate the stories, achievements, and resilience of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on this land since time immemorial and whose presence continues to enrich our country. While this month offers a dedicated opportunity for learning, listening, and celebration, meaningful engagement and recognition must continue throughout the year.

CIHR’s commitment to Indigenous self-determination in health research is ongoing. This month offers a dedicated space to reflect on how we embed Indigenous principles throughout our work. For example, drawing on the works of Indigenous scholars, we uphold the principles of Responsibility, Reciprocity, Respect, Relevance, and Relationship. These values guide us year-round as we work to dismantle racism and bias, advance reconciliation, and foster a compassionate and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.

Together, we have accomplished meaningful milestones towards health equity. To address high rates of tuberculosis in the North, for example, scientific research and Inuit knowledge have been harnessed to develop novel detection methods, advance vaccine research, and train local community members to raise awareness and promote testing. The results include earlier detection and treatment of latent TB, helping to break the cycle of transmission. This is in alignment with the National Inuit Strategy on Research [ PDF (1.17 MB) - external link ], supported by the Inuit Research Network Grant, strengthening long-term capacity for Inuit-led research and knowledge mobilization.

The Indigenous Healthy Life Trajectories Initiative is addressing non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and conditions related to mental wellness – priority issues for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples. The initiative co-creates research with Indigenous governance to (re)build trust and long-term relationships between researchers and Indigenous communities, improve prenatal health practices and parent-child bonding and revitalize Indigenous health knowledge systems, including midwifery, food security and ceremonial practices. This also supports a growing cohort of Indigenous health researchers and creates pathways for youth to engage in health careers rooted in their cultural identities.

The Indigenous Research Chair in Nursing initiative advances policies in nursing practice, education, research, and administration – policies that are leading to improvements in both patient care and health outcomes. Nursing Chair advocacy resulted in the inclusion of a mandatory course on Indigenous history and perspectives on health across all nursing schools in Canada.

The Network Environments for Indigenous Health Research initiative (NEIHR), is operating in every region of the country and represents the largest investment ever made in Indigenous health research. It is deepening Indigenous research capacity as we speak and creating permanent research infrastructure in Indigenous communities while supporting emerging Indigenous scholars through training, mentorship and grants.

All these initiatives bring together researchers, Indigenous leaders, and community members to support community-driven health research grounded in Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Doing.

We also recognize that much more remains to be done to improve health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples. During National Indigenous History Month, we encourage you to reflect on the strength, resilience, and well-being of Indigenous Peoples, and to consider how we can continue to honour Indigenous knowledges, support community-led health initiatives, and work together toward a future grounded in equity, respect, and trust.

Sincerely,

Dr. Paul C. Hébert
President, CIHR

Dr. Chelsea Gabel
Scientific Director, Institute of Indigenous Peoples’ Health

Date modified:

2025-05-30