Actions and Commitments

Call to Action # 22: Health (18-24)

CAMH launches Shkaabe Makwa, Anishinaabe for “Spirit Bear helper”

November 16, 2020

Toronto Star – Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto launches an Indigenous-led centre dedicated to improving health-care services for First Nation, Inuit and Métis communities. Shkaabe Makwa, Anishinaabe for “Spirit Bear helper”, “plans to meld Indigenous knowledge and traditions with medical research, training and healing models for caregivers serving Indigenous communities”.

Dr. James Makokis, Shkaabe Makwa’s first medical director said, ”He’s excited about the chance to focus on Indigenous ceremony, medicine and thought, especially in developing new research that addresses Indigenous needs. Renee Linklater, PhD Senior Director said, ”Culture is central to healing and wellness for many Indigenous people and that’s too often ignored.

https://www.camh.ca/en/driving-change/shkaabe-makwa