On April 10, the CLPNM recognizes and celebrates Indigenous Nurses Day, a time to honour the meaningful contributions Indigenous nurses make to healthcare systems and communities in Manitoba and across Canada. Indigenous nurses play a vital role in delivering culturally safe, compassionate, and community-centred care, grounded in lived experiences, traditional knowledge, and professional expertise. Their leadership and perspectives strengthen healthcare delivery and help foster trust and connection between healthcare services and Indigenous communities.
The CLPNM would like to express our sincere appreciation to all Indigenous Licensed Practical Nurses who competently and compassionately care for Manitobans across the province. This year, in recognition of Indigenous Nurses Day, the CLPNM is also looking back on the legacy, history, and contributions of Indigenous Nurses in our province. This year the CLPNM honours the legacy and contributions of Ann Thomas Callahan (Wapiskisiw Piyésís Iskwéw – White Birdwoman), one of Manitoba’s first Indigenous nurses. A trailblazer in Canadian healthcare and a proud member of the Six Nations of the Grand River. Ann Thomas Callahan dedicated her career to improving access to care by advocating for the health and well-being of Indigenous peoples. Her work continues to inspire future generations of Indigenous nurses and healthcare professionals everywhere.
As we mark this day, the CLPNM, as a health system partner, reaffirms its commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and respect within our profession and our regulatory work. We encourage everyone to take time to recognize and appreciate the important work Indigenous nurses do each day in advancing health and wellness through culturally safe care within our communities.