Coast Salish Territory/ North Vancouver –First Nations Chiefs from across B.C. gathered at the Chief Joe Mathias Centre in North Vancouver this week to affirm their commitment to secure the individual and collective survival, dignity, and well being of First Nations children. The result was the One Heart, One Mind Statement of Solidarity and Cooperation. Through this, Chiefs have given overwhelming support to the Indigenous Child at the Centre Action Plan. The Plan will support First Nations in their efforts to design, deliver, and evaluate programs and services for our children, families, communities, and Indigenous Nations in a way that is consistent with our common cultural beliefs and systems that improves our overall quality of life.
“With 203 different First Nations across the province, we are a diverse people. Each community knows what is best for their children”, said B.C. Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief A-in-chut (Shawn Atleo). “What has been accomplished here is a sense of unity and support for each community driven process to secure the health and well being of our children and ensure they remain connected to their families, communities, and Indigenous Nations.”
An interim Child and Wellness Council has been established to gather further input for the Child at the Centre Action Plan to ensure it reflects the knowledge of front line workers, youth, the community and leadership. The Council will then develop a workplan to advance and implement the Child at the Centre Action Plan.