By Jesse Johnson

SAULT STE. MARIE, ONT. – The Anishinabek Nation’s 8th Annual Health Conference took place Jan. 16-19 at the Quattro Hotel & Convention Centre in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. This year’s theme was ‘Bagidinimaadizidaa mashkawiziiwin ji mashkawiziimigak niigaan – Empowering ourselves to strengthen our future.’ Approximately 100 health professionals, along with four keynote speakers, workshop presenters, and Elders came together to discuss health in-person.

Stan Wesley, master of ceremonies, had everyone laughing and engaged throughout the entire conference. Mishoomis Neil Monague provided the opening drum while Nookmis Mary Elliott and Anishinabek Nation HIV Coordinator Laura Liberty provided the opening prayers.

Following introductions, Anishinabek Nation Northern Superior Regional Deputy Grand Council Chief Melvin Hardy acknowledged and thanked the essential and front-line workers who “have been working tirelessly throughout the ongoing pandemic.”

“These individuals have put themselves and their families at risk to ensure that we continue to have access to essential services and supplies. You all have been the lifeline of our communities during these trying times and we are indebted to your efforts and sacrifices.”

The Anishinabek Nation’s Health Secretariat organized the annual conference bringing together delegates from the 39 Anishinabek Nation member First Nations to share stories and learn about current health topics.

Participants heard presentations from Cancer Care Ontario and Indigenous Diabetes Health Circle (IDHC), and observed the presentation of the Tony H. Jocko Memorial Heroes of Health awards.

This year’s winners were: Irene Monague of Beausoleil First Nation; Beverly Nahwegahbow of Whitefish River First Nation; the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation’s Covid-19 Health Team; and, Phyllis Williams of Curve Lake First Nation.

“These awards are presented to essential and frontline community workers who have been exemplary in their roles,” expressed Regional Deputy Grand Council Chief Hardy. “They carry out their responsibilities with integrity and consistently strive to promote healing and wellness for Anishinabek. We appreciate the consistent dedication and sacrifice of all our healthcare workers and send our deepest gratitude to the award recipients for your contributions.”

There were four keynote speakers this year speaking on a range of health topics. Keynote speakers included Dr. Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, Living the Medicine Wheel Teachings; Dr. Jonathan Bertram, Pain and Opioids; Sheila Wahsquonaikezhik, Human Trafficking; and, Dr. Lorilee McGregor, Food Insecurity.

“We had some phenomenal keynote speakers this year,” said Jamie Restoule, Anishinabek Nation Health Director. “There was a lot of good information shared and I’m sure our health professionals will bring a lot of information back to their communities. I’m pleased with how successful this year’s conference was and I look forward to next year’s conference.”

Participants also had the opportunity to sign up for workshops that focused on contemporary and traditional healing methods. Some topics included but not limited to, self-care and the mindful practise of coming home to our self; Anishinaabe Mino Bimaadiziwin for men; Kinoomaagewinan, Grandmother Teachings; and, Ngamwan, Songs for Healing.

On the final day, there was a Q&A session to answer participants’ questions on the work done by the Health staff this past year.

For more information about the Anishinabek Nation’s Health Secretariat, go to www.anishinabek.ca.