Indigenous Health Day

June 17, 2026   |   8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Kingston, Ontario

View the Agenda

Indigenous Health Day is a full-day gathering centered on learning, listening, and shared understanding. This program welcomes healthcare professionals, community members, educators, students, and anyone interested in Indigenous health and wellbeing to come together in a space grounded in Indigenous knowledge, perspectives, and lived experience.

Through a series of conversations that follow the human life journey—from birth and adolescence through adulthood, aging, and end-of-life care—participants will explore how Indigenous ways of knowing, cultural practices, and community strengths shape health and wellness across the lifespan.

The day begins with a traditional opening and drumming, setting the tone for respectful engagement and reflection. From there, sessions will examine important and timely topics such as:

• The ongoing impacts of colonialism and pathways toward reconciliation in healthcare and beyond
• Indigenous approaches to perinatal care and early life
• Mental health and rites of passage during adolescence
• Chronic disease prevention and wellness in adulthood
• Reframing menopause through Indigenous perspectives
• Cultural practices and transitions in aging and Elderhood
• Compassionate, culturally grounded approaches to palliative and end-of-life care

An Indigenous Artisan Market during lunch offers an opportunity to connect with local artists and community members, further enriching the experience.

This is not only a learning event—it is an invitation to reflect on our individual and collective roles in supporting respectful relationships, cultural safety, and better outcomes for Indigenous communities. Whether you are working within healthcare systems or engaging as a community member, the day is designed to offer practical insights, meaningful dialogue, and perspectives you can carry forward into your work and everyday life.

The program concludes with a Closing Sharing Circle and Call to Action, where participants will reflect on key takeaways and identify actions they can take moving forward.

Who Should Attend

• Healthcare professionals and interprofessional teams
• Community members and Indigenous partners
• Educators, learners, and students
• Health system leaders and administrators
• Anyone with an interest in Indigenous health, equity, and reconciliation

What You’ll Gain

• A deeper understanding of Indigenous perspectives on health and wellness across the lifespan
• Insight into the historical and ongoing impacts of colonialism
• Practical approaches to fostering culturally safe and respectful interactions
• Opportunities to reflect, ask questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue
• Connections with community members, colleagues, and Indigenous voices

Credits

Participants will receive a certificate of completion.

Our policy page can be found here.

Registration Fees

Group Rates Available

Have a group of 3 or more people from your department or organization who'd like to attend? Contact chris.cornish@queensu.ca for a 30% discount.

Registration will NOT be available at the door - please register in advance.