Indigenous art transforms Kingston health care spaces in powerful unveiling.
The Frontenac, Lennox & Addington Ontario Health Team (FLA OHT) and its partners are celebrating the unveiling of Indigenous artworks at six health-care sites across Kingston, Napanee and Tyendinaga.
Created in collaboration with Elders and Knowledge Keepers, the pieces honour Indigenous teachings and approaches to health and wellness.
Pytor Hodgson, CEO of Three Things Consulting, which coordinated the artists and installations explains why these pieces are important to be on display in vulnerable place like this for Indigenous Peoples.
Dr. Kim Morrison, Executive Lead of the FLA OHT, said the works are a visible and lasting reminder of our responsibility to build a more equitable and culturally safe health system.
Pytor Hodgson says that its important for Indigenous Peoples to know that their needs matter.
Installations are complete at Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Queen’s Family Health Team, Kingston Community Health Centres, and other partners. A final unveiling is scheduled this fall at Lennox and Addington County General Hospital.
Hodgson also adds that these pieces are a good way for non-Indigenous folks to build up their understanding.
The initiative also included staff training and new policies to improve culturally safe care.
More art pieces will continue to be unveiled in the following months.
Story by Alyssa Brush
