Honouring Indigenous Nurses and the Path to Recognition

Indigenous Nurses Day reflects years of advocacy, leadership, and the ongoing work to strengthen First Nations health care across Manitoba

Indigenous nurses play a vital role in delivering care across Manitoba, supporting patients in remote, northern, rural, and urban communities. Their work ensures that care reaches people where it is needed most, often in environments where access can be limited and the challenges are complex.

Each year during National Nurses Week, May 13 is recognized as Indigenous Nurses Day. It is a time to honour the dedication, knowledge, and leadership of Indigenous nurses, and to acknowledge the impact they have on the health and well-being of First Nations communities.

“Indigenous Nurses Day is about recognizing the nurses who continue to show up for our communities every day, often in the most challenging settings. It also reminds us of the work ahead, to support and grow the next generation of Indigenous nurses.”

— Caroline Chartrand, Senior Nurse Advisor, Keewatinohk Inniniw Minoayawin Inc. 

This recognition did not happen overnight. Indigenous Nurses Day is the result of years of advocacy led by Indigenous nurses and organizations who worked persistently to have the day formally acknowledged. Through ongoing efforts, including annual submissions to provincial leadership, Indigenous nurses ensured their voices were heard and their contributions recognized.

Beyond recognition, this work reflects a broader commitment to strengthening the Indigenous health workforce. While there are thousands of nurses across Manitoba, only a small number identify as Indigenous. This highlights the need to continue building pathways into the profession and supporting Indigenous students and professionals in their careers.

Partnerships have been an important part of this work. Collaborations with educational institutions and First Nations health organizations have helped create opportunities for training, mentorship, and community-driven learning. These efforts are supporting the next generation of Indigenous nurses and helping to build a workforce that reflects the communities it serves.

Indigenous nurses are not only care providers. They are leaders who bring cultural understanding, lived experience, and a deep commitment to community into their work. Their presence strengthens trust, improves patient experiences, and contributes to more responsive and effective care.

Indigenous Nurses Day is a moment to come together in recognition and pride. It is also a reminder of the work that continues to support Indigenous leadership in health care, to address gaps in access, and to ensure that First Nations communities receive the care they deserve.

We recognize and thank Indigenous nurses for their ongoing commitment, and we continue to support efforts that strengthen Indigenous-led care across Manitoba.