St. Joseph’s Care Group officials say they’ve made good progress toward making Indigenous people feel more welcome.

The organization is releasing its first progress report on its Walking With Humility plan, which was originally set to run from 2018 to 2020 but was extended to 2021.

Its First Steps Report goes over accomplishments like the creation of its Traditional Healing Program and officially opening its Nagishkodaadiwin Spiritual Lodge.

Paul Francis Jr., its first Director of Indigenous Relations, said since starting their “Walking With Humility” plan in 2018, they’ve made steps like creating an Indigenous Health Team.

“I think big institutions can not be as welcoming to our people, connected to our history, which we talked a bit about. So, having an Indigenous staff presence is important, and these are direct recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation [Commission],” he said.

“Much of what has been accomplished has been foundational, supporting an environment that respects body, mind and spirit, where traditional medicines and traditional healing are embedded in the care provided,” said President and CEO Tracy Buckler. “Strong foundations are being built for our continued journey of Walking with Humility.”

St. Joseph’s Care Group also developed a policy for smudging and ceremonial events which allows its clients to have access to traditional medicines like smudging in all St. Joe’s spaces.