UManitoba launches Indigenous Institute of Health and Healing

The Rady Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Manitoba has launched its Indigenous Institute of Health and Healing—Ongomiizwin. The initiative, known as Ongomiizwin/Clearing a path for generations to come, is reportedly the largest Indigenous education and health unit in Canada in terms of its scope and mandate. The new institute will work directly with Indigenous knowledge keepers and elders to advance excellence and provide leadership in research, education, and health services in collaboration with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities. “As we establish this Faculty-wide institute, we are clearing the path for tomorrow’s children – Indigenous and non-Indigenous – to be educated as dentists, dental hygienists, doctors, nurses, pharmacists and rehabilitation therapists in a culturally safe place where Indigenous knowledge and relationships are formally recognized,” said Catherine Cook, vice-dean of Indigenous health at the Rady Faculty. UManitoba