Karihwáhstha means: “Still Useful”
In recent years, IDHC developed an abundance of virtual training offerings for their many audiences. Drawing on the success of their virtual platform, at their 2022 annual conference, IDHC introduced the idea of a Virtual Circle.
In March 2023, IDHC began to map out the vision and roadmap for the Circle. A priority of the Circle is to “gain recognition of the IDHC and its partners as trusted and effective advocates for system changes that support Indigenous Peoples and communities in their diabetes wellness journey.” In working towards this priority, in 2023, with funding support from the Lawson Foundation, IDHC held its inaugural National Public Policy Circle Gathering in July 2023 in Calgary, AB.
The 2023 Gathering, organized by the Lawson Foundation, brought together key stakeholders nationwide to work towards effecting public policy for better health outcomes. The event set the stage for the 2024 National Public Policy Gathering in Victoria and evolved IDHC’s plan for a Circle. This Public Policy Circle will support public policy development and be a hub for impactful capacity building for frontline health workers.
Elders say that life is a circle – in a cycle that has been with Indigenous Peoples forever – and will continue forever. A virtual circle is shaping this work. From one of the Elder Teachings, it is said “we would lose almost everything. But then there would come a time when at least one person would reach out to the Elders and return to our Ways, our Original Ways.” This is such a time. The trees and the animals have spoken. The Elders walked amongst the trees to experience the land and take in the voices. In fact, this is going to be a great time – a rebirth – and a resurgence of our Ways. That is why we’re here today.
And Indigenous health policies are a priority to communities.
And so it is clear why we are “Still Useful” now.
We say, “Karihwáhstha.”
