IFIC Canada Virtual Community Session | Indigenous Ways of Knowing and Being

Around the world, health and social systems are recognizing the urgent need to move beyond fragmented, institutional approaches toward models of care that are rooted in relationships, community, and connection to land and spirit. Indigenous ways of knowing and being offer time-honored, deeply relational knowledge systems that are essential to this transformation.

This session explored how Indigenous worldviews, values, and practices are not only relevant—but foundational—to advancing integrated care and improving population health. We engaged in a generative discussion that brought together diverse voices to reflect on:

How Indigenous ways of knowing challenge and enrich dominant paradigms of care

Practical examples of "Two-Eyed Seeing" - integrating Indigenous and Western approaches to healthcare

Real-world governance transformations using Indigenous decision-making principles

Moving from fragmented mental/physical health models to holistic, whole-person care

What it means to create ethical space for co-leadership, truth-telling, and reciprocity

How we move from performative inclusion to true partnership, sovereignty, and systems change

*Why This Matters*

In this era of reimagining care, Indigenous knowledge systems provide a vital compass for building health and social systems that are whole, human, and healing. These teachings—rooted in interconnectedness, balance, and respect—offer a path forward not only for Indigenous Peoples, but for all of us seeking a more integrated and life-affirming approach to well-being.

This powerful conversation honored Indigenous leadership and explored how these ways of knowing have guided the transformation of care across Canada and around the world, featuring real examples of governance innovation, system redesign, and the courage required to move from good intentions to meaningful action.