BC NEIHR September 1, 2023

Mushrooms generally grow in moist, cool conditions, appearing often either in the spring or the fall, sometimes in groups, rings or dense clusters. Forests and woodlands, fields and lawns are all good mushroom locales. British Columbia’s west coast forests, and the eastern hardwood forests of Ontario, Quebec and the Maritimes are all excellent locales for mushroom harvesting, especially in the fall. Chanterelles are one of the most popular wild mushrooms, picked and sold commercially in many parts of Canada. There is a complex of closely related North American species, all of which are yellow or orange-yellow in colour (Cantharellus cibarius complex). These small-to-medium sized mushrooms grow under coniferous or deciduous trees. Chanterelles have flat-topped caps 5-8 cm or more across. The stem below is funnel-shaped with gill-like ridges. These structures distinguish chanterelles from inedible look-alikes that have well-formed gills (https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/wild-mushrooms-in-canada).

Learn more about how to harvest chantrelles yourself with this YouTube video. Qwustenuxun Williams is a seven-year old first nations food teacher located on southern Vancouver Island, in unceded Salish territory. Qwustenuxun charmingly teaches lessons in hul'q'umi'num language, wild harvesting, and traditional Salish foods.

Mission Statement: The BC NEIHR facilitates and supports capacity for and engagement in Indigenous-led health research that is woven from the values, knowledge systems, protocols, priorities and leadership of Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations (ICCOs), academic researchers and students in BC. Our collective goal is to ground BC NEIHR structures, relationships and processes in the values and principles of self-determination, Indigenous knowledge, wholistic population health and wellness, as well as intersectionality, equity, and transparency. We also aspire to promote and support Indigenous and/or decolonizing (ID) methodologies, ethics and OCAP® in Indigenous research. In BC NEIHR activities, we acknowledge and will uphold the cultural safety and cultural humility that is modeled by the work of the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) and the work yet to come from other ICCOs.

The BC NEIHR is guided by three Indigenous-governed, community-led organizations that are leading health and wellness research across BC. The three salmon in our logo represent these key partners:

If you would like to join the British Columbia Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research, fill out the BC NEIHR Registration Survey Form.

Being part of the BC NEIHR will connect you to research and student funding, trainings, events, employment and other unique opportunities in British Columbia and across Canada!

Already a BC NEIHR Member? Do not forget to update your Registration Form each year to ensure we have accurate records.

BC NEIHR UPDATES

BC NEIHR Network Coordinator, Tara Erb, and Principal Investigator, Dr. Krista Stelkia, have published an article in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health on the work the BC NEIHR is doing with Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations in BC. Read "Best Practices to Support the Self-Determination of Indigenous Communities, Collectives, and Organizations in Health Research through a Provincial Health Research Network Environment in British Columbia, Canada" here.

The BC NEIHR is excited to share our Podcast, Research DE-Colonized: Ethical, Indigenous-Led Health and Wellness Research in Canada!

Join BC NEIHR Indigenous Health Research Facilitator, Laura McNab-Coombs, as she connects with inspiring Indigenous health and wellness scholars, healthcare professionals, and communities sharing their stories of how they’re decolonizing health and wellness research, changing healthcare and academe along the way. Topics of conversation will cover pathways into health and wellness research, techniques and research design, funding research, past and present health and wellness projects, and ethical research protocols when involving Indigenous communities, collectives and organizations. Our first episode features Laura as she introduces listeners to the Who, What, and Why of the BC NEIHR, our programming and funding opportunities, and what to expect in future episodes. Episodes will be released on the last Friday of every month. Find us at: https://researchdecolonized.buzzsprout.com. This podcast is also hosted on Spotify, Podchaser, Player FM, and Podcast Addict. For more information on the podcast or the material presented, please contact lauramcnabcoombs@uvic.ca.

S1E6 - In this long (but thrilling!) episode, Laura sits down for a heartfelt, honest conversation with Tsimshian scholar Spencer Greening/La’goot to discuss his journey through academe. Covering a range of exciting topics, Spencer shares his experiences and thoughts on:

• Growing up out of his community and reconnecting to his roots;
• Doing research with and for his community
• When and where hereditary and colonial governance structures interface, as witnessed in his home community;
• Rebuilding and re-imaging our relationship to the land as a mechanism to combat environmental degradation and negative impacts of climate change;
• Navigating the complexities of cultural and community priorities, versus academic and institutional expectations and commitments

Research Funding

Operating Grant: Data Analysis Using Existing Databases and Cohorts (2023). Sponsors: CIHR’s Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (IHDCYH) in partnership with the CIHR Institute of Infection and Immunity (III) and Indigenous Services Canada – First Nations and Inuit Health Branch (ISC-FNIHB). The purpose of this funding opportunity is to support projects that use data from existing Canadian-based cohorts, databases, cohort catalogues, and data platforms, and are relevant to human development, child and/or youth health with the goal to inform improved patient, population, and system outcomes. To learn more and apply, click here. Registration deadline: September 7, 2023. Application deadline: October 3, 2023.

Catalyst Grant: Healthy Youth (2023). Sponsors: CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (IHDCYH), in partnership with the CIHR Institute of Population and Public Health (IPPH), and Indigenous Services Canada - First Nations and Inuit Health Branch (ISC-FNIHB). This catalyst grant funding opportunity is part of the Healthy Youth Initiative led by the CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (IHDCYH). It aims to help identify and develop emerging research foci relevant to at least one of the six priority areas of Canada's Youth Policy, foster networking and collaboration, and build capacity for youth engagement in health research. To learn more and apply, click here. Registration deadline: October 12, 2023. Application deadline: November 8, 2023.

2024 suite of funding programs: Advancing health research that improves health, saves lives, and strengthens BC’s economy. Michael Smith Health Research BC announced their 2024 suite of funding programs that provide opportunities for BC health researchers across all regions of the province. Learn more here.

Building research talent for BC’s future:

• Health Professional-Investigator – October 2023. After a one-year pause, the HP-I Program is returning for the 2024 competition. The program supports health professionals who are actively involved in patient care to build their health research programs.
• Scholar – October 2023. The Scholar Program supports early career health researchers, helping them form their own research teams, train the next generation of scientists, and develop world-leading research programs.
• Research Trainee – November 2023. The Research Trainee Program supports the best and brightest health researchers in training to enable career development and support world-class health research in BC.

Mobilizing communities for research impact:

• Convening & Collaborating (C²) – April 2024. Convening & Collaborating supports teams of health researchers and research users to co-develop research that can have direct impacts on people, including patients, health practitioners and policy makers.
• Reach – April 2024. Reach supports teams of researchers and research users to disseminate research evidence with those who can directly benefit from it in order to impact health and care in BC.

Student Funding

Research Experience Award. The objective is to support Indigenous (First Nations, Métis or Inuit) graduate students studying in British Columbia (BC), who are pursuing Indigenous wellness-related research and seeking to gain additional research-related experience. Eligibility: Indigenous graduate students in BC who have partnered with an Indigenous community, collective or organization (ICCO) to engage in a wellness-related research project that is mutually beneficial. Partnerships can form in response to a placement advertised by BC NEIHR or can be a pre-existing relationship. Applicants must be studying in and conducting research in British Columbia. Applicants must also have an Academic Mentor at an eligible institution for funds to be transferred. For more information and how to apply, click here. No deadline: Research Experiences will be reviewed on a rolling basis, pending opportunities available for placements within ICCOs. Any student who has a pre-established relationship with an ICCO is eligible to submit an application with their ICCO partner at any time.

Our scholarship program is designed to support, educate and inspire the next generation of leaders and professionals who have the power to change the future. We have three scholarship categories to help you achieve your education goals: Indigenous Peoples; Community Leaders; and Renewable Energy Trades. For more information and to apply, click here. Our scholarship application window will close on September 15, 2023.

Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships. The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships program provides funding to the very best postdoctoral applicants, both nationally and internationally, who will positively contribute to the country's economic, social, and research-based growth. Areas of research: Health research; Natural sciences and/or engineering; Social sciences and/or humanities. Value & duration: $70,000 per year (taxable); 2 years (non-renewable). For more information and how to apply, click here. Application submission deadline: September 20, 2023 (20:00 EDT).

M’akola Development Services (MDS) is a professional development consulting firm committed to supporting vibrant, diverse communities in British Columbia.

• Tom Finnie Indigenous Trades Bursary. Six bursaries will be awarded over six regions to Indigenous students enrolled in a trades program. Each bursary will be in the amount of $2,500. For more information and how to apply, click here. Deadline: October 27th, 2023.
• M’akola Development Services (MDS) Scholarships & Bursaries

Bill and Elsie More First Nations Bursary. The Bursary is intended for First Nations students enrolled in a recognized post secondary course of studies, who are experiencing financial need. The award is for amounts up to $1000. Preference is given to students who have already completed part of their program of studies and who may be unable to finish because of their financial situation. For more information and how to apply, click here. The deadline for applications is the end of October.

Build your own bright future with just one application! Hundreds of bursaries, scholarships, and awards. Since 2004, Indspire has provided over $153 million in financial support to more than 49,000 First Nations, Inuit and Métis students.

Bursaries, Scholarships and Awards for Post-Secondary Education and Skilled Trades. Full and part time studies in college, university, skilled trades, apprenticeships, and technology programs for the September 2022 – August 2023 academic year. There is one application for all of Indspire’s bursaries, scholarships, and awards (*with a few exceptions). You only need to complete the application once to be considered for all applicable bursaries, scholarships, and awards. Deadlines: August 1, November 1, and February 1 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. *For more information and to apply, click here.

Post-Secondary Student Support Program (PSSSP). Provides eligible First Nations students with funding to access education opportunities at the post-secondary level, including university and college entrance preparation programs. For more information and how to apply, click here. Application Deadlines:

• November 1, 2023 – for the Winter 2024 semester (January-April)
• March 31, 2024 – for students applying for the Summer 2024 semester (May-August)

First Citizens Fund Student Bursary Program. Provides financial awards to Indigenous students enrolled in post-secondary education. Bursaries between $700-$1,200 are awarded to students who meet all eligibility requirements and who demonstrate significant financial need. Students apply for the bursary after they successfully complete a semester of post-secondary school. For more information and how to apply, click here. Application Deadlines:

• September 15th, 2023 – for students applying for the Summer 2023 semester (May-August)
• January 15th, 2024 – for students applying for the Fall 2023 semester (September-December)
• May 15th, 2024 – for students applying for the Winter 2024Semester (January-April)

Indigenous Disability Canada’s Support for Indigenous Student Learning Program (SISLP) is a time-limited project for Indigenous students across Canada who have limited financial resources, including those students living with disabilities. The SISLP is accepting applications from students of any age enrolled in a Formal educational institution (either online, remote, or through on-site learning) to be considered to receive a laptop and other technology / equipment supports necessary to assist with their continued education and success. For more information and how to apply, click here. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until March 15th, 2024. Due to the limited funding and a high demand, it is recommend that applicants submit their completed application as early as possible. Please contact sislp@bcands.bc.ca if you need assistance with the application or have any questions.

The BC First Nations Forestry Council Indigenous Forestry Scholarship Program (IFSP) is designed to provide support for First Nations, Inuit or Métis students interested in attending full-time studies in the following applicable areas: Forestry Technician; Natural Resources; Environmental Technology; Business Management; Business Administration; Geographic Information Systems; and Forestry Trades. For more information and how to apply, click here. No Deadline.

Employment Opportunities

• Indigenous Health Research Facilitators (IHRFs) - Northern and Fraser Valley Regions. Under the supervision of the Nominated Principal Applicant, Dr. Jeff Reading, and Network Coordinator, Tara Erb, as well as working with the BC NEIHR key partners (First Nations Health Authority, Métis Nation BC, and BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres), and the BC SUPPORT Unit, the IHRFs will undertake the following activities: Support Indigenous Communities, Collectives and Organizations (ICCOs); Knowledge Sharing and Mobilization (KSM), Event Coordination, Special Projects and Travel; and Communications and Training. For the full job posting and how to apply, click here. Applications will be reviewed until the positions are filled.

• Etalew̓txʷ | ÁTOL ÁUTW – Office of the Vice-President Indigenous (OVPI) Director of Culture, Protocol and Community Relations. Provides leadership and direction that furthers UVic's commitment to the strategic priority ʔetal nəwəl | ÁTOL,NEUEL (respecting the rights of one another and being in right relationship with all things), in UVic’s Strategic Plan, and the Indigenous Plan. To view the job posting and to apply, click here. Deadline: 4 pm, Sept 13, 2023.

• Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) – Scientific Director (SD) Institute of Indigenous Peoples' Health (IIPH). Reporting directly to the President of CIHR, and working with the organization's Executive team, staff, and other Scientific Directors and Institute staff, the Scientific Director (SD) of CIHR-IIPH will provide overall executive direction and scientific leadership for CIHR-IIPH. In addition, they will champion and support Indigenous health research, knowledge mobilization, and capacity development at the highest level of scientific excellence. To learn more and how to apply, click here. Deadline: October 2, 2023.

The Discourse provides community-powered journalism to underserved communities.

• Partnerships Specialist - Vancouver Island. Discourse Community Publishing (DCP) is seeking a qualified candidate to fill a full time, permanent partnerships specialist role, focused engaging the businesses community through sponsorship, advertising, and other revenue generation agreements. This position in based on Vancouver Island, B.C. on the traditional territories of the Snuneymuxw, K’ómoks, Quw'utsun, Ts'uubaa-asatx, Ditidaht, Malahat and Pacheedaht First Nations. This position is focused on supporting existing clients in our Cowichan and Nanaimo outlets, as well as developing new client relationships in these and other Vancouver Island markets. To view the job posting and apply, click here. Deadline: October 10, 2023.
• To explore all current openings, click here.

IndigiNews represents a partnership between Discourse Community Publishing and APTN National News. IndigiNews is primarily based in “BC” with reporters on “Vancouver Island” and the “Okanagan.” IndigiNews aims to provide digital journalism driven by local Indigenous communities’ needs, while developing a business model that contributes to the long-term sustainability of independent Indigenous-centred media.

• Storyteller, Indigenous Law. Indigenous law is a subject that encompasses a wide range of subject matter beyond just the courtroom — including treaties, UNDRIP, hereditary governance and even the land itself. IndigiNews is looking for an energetic reporter to join our team until March 31, 2024, to report on these topics. We’re looking for someone who can make this beat their own, reporting national-scope stories from somewhere in “Canada” — ideally in “British Columbia” or on the prairies but we are open to all locations. This position starts immediately and with the possibility of renewal. To view the job posting and apply, click here.

The Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council (NTC) Health Department is seeking a term, full-time Research Associate Lead for its Indigenous Healthy Life Trajectories Initiative (I-HeLTI) Project, based out of Port Alberni. The project applies traditional Nuu-chah-nulth knowledge to inform activities and to reclaim positive pathways for promoting and sustaining healthy child development. The I-HeLTI Research Associate Lead will provide scientific leadership and liaise between NTC (NTC team members, Elders, communities, service providers) and academic partners (extended academic team). The role interprets and understands the research interests and priorities of the individuals and groups working within the I-HeLTI Project. To meet project goals, the I-HeLTI Project team will use both Indigenous knowledge and scientific methods to measure the wellbeing of children and families over time. Opportunity for a Research Associate affiliation with the Centre for Collaborative Action on Indigenous Health Governance at Simon Fraser University in partnership with BC’s First Nations Health Authority. To view the full posting and how to apply, click here. Open until filled.

• Tenure-track Tier 2 Canada Research Chair (CRC) - Indigenous Health Governance. Seeking a scholar whose program of research uses Indigenous methodologies to build Indigenous peoples’ right to self-determine their own health and wellness journeys. The successful applicant will be familiar with the provincial health system, as well as have established partnership/partnerships with Indigenous nations, communities, and/or organizations, in British Columbia (BC), Canada. To read the full description with application instructions, click here. Screening of applications will commence on September 5, 2023. The competition will remain open until the position is filled.
• To explore all current SFU career opportunities, click here.

• Associate Vice-President, Indigenous - Reporting to the President, the Associate Vice-President, Indigenous (AVPI), is a member of the University’s senior leadership team. The incumbent will work collaboratively with the President’s Executive Leadership Team to provide strategic leadership, oversight, advice, and guidance at an institutional level in support of UNBC’s commitment to Indigenous student educational achievement, community engagement and Reconciliation. Location: Prince George, BC. For more information and how to apply, click here.
• To view all current UNBC career opportunities, click here.

• Assistant Professor, Faculty of Native Studies - seeking applications for a full-time tenure-track appointment at the rank of Assistant Professor in Indigenous health and wellness, specifically pertaining to determinants of health and well-being from the perspective of Indigenous peoples. Candidates should have knowledge and experience in areas such as, but not limited to the following: improving health and wellness in Indigenous communities; the relationship between wellness and cultural traditions and activities; and/or policy relating to Indigenous health and wellness. To view the posting and apply, click here. Open until filled.

• Lead, Indigenous Cultural Safety (ICS) & Evaluation. Vancouver Coastal Health is committed to improving the health and access to culturally safe healthcare of the Indigenous people in our region, and we recognize that we all have a contribution to make in reconciliation and healing. VCH’s Indigenous Health team works with staff and physicians across all programs and departments to provide strategic leadership, partner collaboration and community engagement to assist VCH to become a more culturally competent and safe organization. To view the job posting and apply, click here.
• Leader, Indigenous Engagement. The Leader, Indigenous Engagement, will play a critical role in helping VCH collaborate, consult and communicate with First Nations, Metis and Inuit communities across the region through transparent, respectful, and meaningful engagement. This is part of our continued commitment to the Provincial Declaration of Commitment to Cultural Safety and Humility, the Truth and Reconciliation Commissions Calls to Action, and the United Nations Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous People. To view the job posting and apply, click here.
• To explore all Vancouver Coastal Health Career Opportunities, click here.

• Aboriginal Patient Navigator. The Aboriginal Patient Navigator (APN) works as part of the Interdisciplinary Care Team and, as required, acts as a resource for both Aboriginal clients and healthcare providers to ensure the provision of care is culturally safe and client-centered. The APN works with Aboriginal people located in the assigned Interior Health (IH) service area across varying sectors of health (e.g., acute care, residential services, mental health, public health, and home health services), depending on the local service area. Williams Lake - permanent full time: click here to learn more and apply. Open until filled. Kelowna General Hospital - permanent part time: click here to learn more and apply (This part time position is perfect for a college/university student who is completing studies in social work or other diploma or degree in healthcare). Open until filled.
• To explore Interior Health Careers, click here.

Recruiting Indigenous Students to work with the BC Office of the Provincial Health Officer on our Unlearning & Undoing White Supremacy Project. We have begun a two-year initiative of unlearning and undoing inherited systemic white supremacy and racism within the BC Office of the Provincial Health Officer (OPHO) that will contribute to development of a plan to address the Government of BC’s foundational commitments to rights and reconciliation across the OPHO’s mandates. Reconciliation requires being trustworthy, creating cultural safety, and making things right with the original inhabitants of these territories. The OPHO’s ongoing efforts to earn and maintain the trust of Indigenous Peoples, as well as racialized communities in BC, center on unlearning and undoing systemic white supremacy and racism inherited from the settler colonial origins of BC’s institutions. Over the next two years we will seek to:

• Illuminate which OPHO structures, policies, practices, norms, and values currently uphold systemic white supremacy and racism.
• Begin to unlearn and undo white supremacy and racism within the OPHO.
• Inform a path forward to uphold, embrace, and monitor progress towards, ‘foundational commitments’ within the OPHO’s work.

We are guided by the wisdom of Dr. Camara Jones, former president of the American Public Health Association, who launched a national campaign against racism. Her ‘Science & Practice of Anti-Racism’ framework outlines three tasks: (1) naming racism; (2) asking, how is it operating here?; and (3) organizing and strategizing to act. There is opportunity for Indigenous student(s) to contribute to elements of this work during their practicum or elective rotation. For more information, contact: kate.jongbloed@gov.bc.ca and daniele.behnsmith@gov.bc.ca

The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council (I·SPARC) is a provincial organization established for the purpose of improving the health outcomes of Indigenous people by supporting and encouraging physically active individuals, families, and communities. The programs and services delivered by I·SPARC are designed to build capacity and increase access to sport, recreation, and physical activity in First Nations, Aboriginal Friendship Centres, Métis Chartered Communities, schools, and other delivery agencies throughout British Columbia.

• To view all current employment opportunities, click here.

Are you passionate about supporting the revitalization of First Nations languages, arts and cultural heritage in BC? First Peoples’ Cultural Council (FPCC) is a First Nations-led Crown Corporation that provides grants, training, coaching and resources to communities. We are a team of Indigenous people and allies, working together in pursuit of a vision where First Nations languages, arts and cultures are thriving and passed on to future generations. We offer an open and collaborative work environment guided by Indigenous values and we are seeking people with a passion for arts, heritage, language and technology to join our team.

• To see all current employment opportunities, click here.

The BCAAFC is the umbrella organization for the Friendship Centres across BC. BC Friendship Centres work to promote, develop and deliver accessible programs and services that support Indigenous peoples living in urban areas and away from home to achieve their vision of health, wellness and prosperity.

• To view all current BCAAFC career opportunities, click here.

Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) develops and enhances opportunities for our Métis communities by implementing culturally relevant social and economic programs and services. Through teamwork, respect, dedication, accountability, integrity, and professionalism, MNBC strives to build a proud, self-governing, sustainable Nation in recognition of inherent rights for our Métis citizens, assisting in the delivery of services based on policy, process, and specified regulations. Become part of the Métis Nation BC team and take an active role in shaping the Métis Nation in BC.

• To view all available MNBC career opportunities, click here.

The FNHA is a trailblazing organization filled with meaningful work and rich with transformative learning opportunities. Here you will find a sense of direction and belonging, with those who share your drive to create change in the world and in yourself – for the better.

• To explore all current FNHA job postings, click here.

Training and Events

September 11- 15, 2023 | Vancouver, BC - Healing Our Spirit Worldwide – The Ninth Gathering. The Ninth Gathering will take place on the the unceded and ancestral territory of the xʷməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) People. It is hosted by the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), First Nations Health Council (FNHC) and First Nations Health Directors Association (FNHDA) in coordination with the International Indigenous Council for Healing Our Spirit Worldwide (IICHOSW). To learn more and register, click here.

September 16, 2023 | Vancouver, BC - ʔəm̓i ce:p xʷiwəl “Come Toward the Fire.” A Celebration of Indigenous Community, Culture, and Creativity presented by the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts and Musqueam. A family-friendly Indigenous-led festival in advance of the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation. This year's festival will include music performances, workshops, film screenings, food vendors, an Indigenous artisan market, and more. Everyone is welcome! All festival events are FREE for Indigenous community members. More information is available on the Chan Centre event page and on the Festival Website. Tickets are available here.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation & Orange Shirt Day - September 30, 2023

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day honours the children who never returned home and Survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process. Additional information and resources are available on the Government of Canada webpage and the Government of British Columbia webpage.

Remembering The Children: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2023. A national commemorative gathering will be broadcast live from Parliament Hill on September 30, 2023. Check your local listings.

Truth and Reconciliation Week | September 25 – 30, 2023 brought to you by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR). This bilingual educational program is open to all schools across Canada. All sessions will be held virtually, allowing classroom participation from across the country and the involvement of Indigenous and non-Indigenous students. From September 25-30, 2023, registration is required.

Orange Shirt Day is an Indigenous-led grassroots commemorative day intended to raise awareness of the individual, family and community inter-generational impacts of residential schools, and to promote the concept of “Every Child Matters”. The orange shirt is a symbol of the stripping away of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children over generations. Learn more from the Orange Shirt Society.

The 24th annual imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival will take place October 17-22, 2023 (Toronto) and October 23-29, 2023 (online).

As the largest presenter of Indigenous screen content, we invite you to participate in Artistic and Industry programs over the Festival; showcasing Film + Video, Digital + Interactive, and Audio works created by Indigenous artists (including directors, producers, writers, and designers) at all levels of experience.

Early Bird Ticket Packages are on sale now! Purchase an Early Bird Ticket Package until September 14, 2023, and receive bonus tickets for free PLUS early access to book your Festival tickets. Full programming will be announced on September 15, 2023. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.

Sacred Journey has started touring and will travel amongst canoe nations in the Pacific Northwest and across Canada in the coming years.

Discover how the Tribal Canoe Journeys have catalyzed the revitalization of Indigenous culture, community healing, and youth empowerment on the Pacific Northwest Coast. To learn more, click here.

Call for Papers and Unique Opportunities

Environmental Contaminants Program - supports First Nations projects that explore the link between human health and environmental contaminants. For more information and how to apply, click here.

Mental Health & Wellness Fund - supports Nations and aggregations of First Nations to come together to plan, design and deliver a full continuum of culture and strength-based mental health and wellness services, including prevention and early intervention. For more information and how to apply, click here.

Food Systems Program Grant. The Food Systems Program – funded by the First Nations Health Authority and managed by I·SPARC – supports Food Security and Sovereignty in First Nation communities throughout BC with a grant in an amount up to $5,000.00 as well as networking and knowledge sharing opportunities delivered virtually and in-person. To learn more and apply, click here. The deadline to apply for the Food Systems Program Grants has been extended to Sept. 15!

Path Forward Community Fund. The objective of the Path Forward Community Funds is to increase community safety planning and capacity building to ensure the self-determination of Indigenous communities in addressing Indigenous-specific systemic causes of gender-based violence. Organizations may submit more than one application provided the intended outcomes of the projects are different. For more information and how to apply, click here. Applications due: September 15, 2023 at 11:59 PM (PST).

Disability Alliance BC Accessibility Projects Grants 2023/2024. Promoting Inclusion and Accessibility for People with Disabilities. Applications now open! These grants are for community-based projects focusing on one of the following objectives to increase accessibility for people with disabilities:

• Accessible employment;
• Accessible emergency planning and response;
• Accessible arts, culture and tourism;
• Accessible sports and recreation;
• Accessible education and learning;
• Accessible community participation.

For more information and the application package, click here. Completed applications must be received by 12:00 pm (noon) Pacific Time on Friday September 15, 2023.

Call for Proposals: S’TEṈISTOLW̱ 2024 Indigenous Education Conference (Victoria BC). Accepting session proposals for the 2024 S’TEṈISTOLW̱ Indigenous Adult and Post-Secondary Education Conference, to be held Tuesday, August 20 - Friday, August 23, 2024. Inviting all educators, administrators, helpers and staff in Indigenous programs, organizations and institutions as well as community leaders, knowledge keepers, scholars, students and allies in the field of Indigenous adult and post-secondary education across Canada and internationally. Proposals should encompass the session theme, alignment with Indigenous resurgence, and progress towards self-determination. For complete guidelines and submission details, click here. Application closes September 15, 2023 at Midnight.

First Peoples' Cultural Council (FPPC) Grant funding supports communities to revitalize their Indigenous languages, arts and cultural heritage in BC. To view all available grants, click here.

• Music Program - supports the development of BC First Nations, First Nations, Inuit and Métis music creatives and professionals residing in BC through grants and training programs. The Music Program funds activities that can lead to professional development opportunities, cultural knowledge transfer and community well-being. This program offers three areas of funding for artists, recording engineers and music industry professionals. Deadline: September 15, 2023.
• Arts Infrastructure Program - supports BC First Nations, First Nations, Métis and Inuit community organizations and First Nations led non-profit arts and culture organizations and societies. Funding supports construction or renovations of art spaces, artistic production projects, administrative capacity building and operational assistance. Deadline: September 15, 2023.
• Arts Strengthening Program - supports BC First Nations arts revitalization opportunities for one-on-one arts mentorships or arts group knowledge transfer. Projects in this program focus on the transfer of essential artistic and cultural knowledge to new generations of First Nations artists to support the strengthening and continuation of significant cultural practices. Deadline: September 15, 2023.
• Individual Artists Program - supports the artistic development of BC First Nations, First Nations, Métis and Inuit creators residing in BC. Deadline: September 15, 2023.

The Mentor-Apprentice Program (MAP) supports the development of fluent speakers of BC First Nations languages through one-on-one immersion. Deadline: October 23, 2023.

• Online info session September 12, 2023. Register here.
• For more information on the program details and eligibility, view the guidelines posted on the MAP program page.
• Learn more about FPCC’s Mentor-Apprentice Program (MAP) in this overview video.
• FPCC staff are happy to support you with your application. Please contact Aurora Skala at map@fpcc.ca for assistance by September 29, 2023.

Creative BC funding programs drive creation and export of domestic creative content. From development support to international trade fair presence, our programs and activities aim to: optimize funding opportunities for projects and companies; grow BC’s ecosystem of support in which creative entrepreneurs can thrive; and give BC’s creative industries access to the national supports and international markets that will increase our province’s success in the sector. Explore all Creative BC Funding Programs here.

Live Music. The Live Music program supports BC-based live music events, creating engagement opportunities for audiences and artists. Apply here. Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM, PT on September 27, 2023. Public info sessions - get all the details about eligibility, examples of past successful projects, and the application process:

• September 5, 2023, 11 am – 12 pm (Facebook Live)
• September 14, 2023, 6 pm – 7:30 pm (In-person, at the Creative BC offices)
• September 20, 2023, 2 pm – 3 pm (MS Teams)
• These sessions are offered at no cost to participants. Info sessions will be conducted in English, and occur in Pacific Time. Unable to make any of the above info sessions? Please reach out to Creative BC staff directly for support.

The Canada Council for the Arts champions and invests in artistic excellence through grants, services, prizes and payments to professional Canadian artists, groups and arts organizations. For a list of all available grants, click here.

Creating, Knowing and Sharing: The Arts and Cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples. This program supports Indigenous individuals, groups, Indigenous-led arts organizations and arts/cultural sector development organizations that foster a vital and resilient Indigenous arts ecosystem. Program Components:

• Travel - grants support travel costs to attend significant events within Canada or abroad that advance your professional development, enable you or the artists you represent to access new markets or build national and international presence. Deadline: Any time before your departure date.
• Small-Scale Activities - funds activities that will advance your artistic career or practice. Deadline: Any time before the start date of your project.
• Indigenous Organizations - grants support the exploration of innovative strategies for Indigenous creative and cultural expression, and related administrative activities. Deadline: September 20, 2023.
• Short-Term Projects - grants provide support for any combination of eligible Creating, Knowing and Sharing activities for projects lasting up to 12 months. Deadlines: September 20, December 13, 2023 and March 20, 2024.

Our theme for Langscape Vol. 13 (2024) is "Territories of Life: Sources of Biocultural Diversity, Resilience, and Self-Determination."

We're asking our contributors to consider the concept of Indigenous and community conserved areas, also known as “territories of life.” It's a concept that embodies the core tenet of the idea and practices of biocultural diversity: that there is an inextricable, mutual link between people and the natural world. Territories of life sustain the lives and livelihoods of people; in turn, people sustain the territories from which they draw their relationships, knowledge systems, and livelihoods.

We’re eager to hear from both Indigenous and non-Indigenous custodians and stewards, as well as their allies, who wish to share ideas, reflections, and on-the-ground experiences on this theme. We welcome written stories as well as photo and video essays. And we also wish to explore other, more symbolic or metaphorical, ways of addressing the theme, such as poetry, artwork, songs, music, and more.

Read our Call for Expressions of Interest, and send us your Expression of Interest by September 29, 2023.

Submit a Story to the Indigenous Youth Storytellers Circle! If you’re a young Indigenous person up to 35 years old, we invite you to join the Indigenous Youth Storytellers Circle. We want to hear stories about how you're (re)connecting with your ancestral languages, cultures, traditional knowledge, and lands.

Four Focus Areas:

• re-affirming your cultural identity
• breathing new life into your ancestral language
• reconnecting with your people’s ways of life and traditional values, knowledge and practices
• reclaiming your ancestral links with the land

Call for Expression of Interest. Deadline: September 29, 2023.

The TELUS Indigenous Communities Fund offers grants up to $50,000 for Indigenous-led social, health and community programs. To find out more and apply, click here. Closes on October 13 at 23:59 (local time).

Canadian Journal of Native Education Call for Papers. The Canadian Journal of Native Education (CJNE) invites Indigenous scholars and allies to submit articles, book reviews and creative storyworks for our final hardcover and first online open access edition of the journal. Scholars are encouraged to explore issues, ideas, innovations and emergent concerns related to Indigenous education in Canada and in other colonial contexts around the world. We welcome submissions that prioritize Indigenous ways of knowing and research methodologies in the field of education from community, K-12, and post-secondary perspectives. Submission instructions can be found here. Submissions will be accepted until Nov 1, 2023 at 11:59pm PST.

Community Gaming Grants - provide $140 million annually to not-for-profit organizations throughout BC, to support their delivery of ongoing programs and services that meet the needs of their communities. For more information about these grants, including eligibility criteria, grant amounts, how and when to apply and more, click here.

• Human and Social Services - Organizations within this sector deliver programs that improve the quality of life in a community by supporting the wellbeing of children, youth, families and/ or seniors; by addressing equality issues (e.g., gender, LGBTQ2S+, race, etc.); by addressing the unmet needs of under-served groups; or, by providing public outreach and education regarding important social issues. Apply between August 1 and November 30.

New Relationship Trust offers a range of funding initiatives supporting First Nation communities, organizations, and individuals through their journey towards greater self-sufficiency. Click here for an overview of all funding programs.

• New! Food Security & Sovereignty. The Indigenous Food Security & Sovereignty (IFS) Grant provides non-repayable funding contributions to First Nation communities, Indigenous organizations, businesses, and entrepreneurs in British Columbia that want to participate in and receive financial supports to develop, expand, or strengthen their Indigenous food systems and innovation to enhance sustainability and growth of the Indigenous agriculture and food sovereignty. The program offers two funding streams: Stream 1 provides up to $150,000 for planning and design activities; Stream 2 offers up to $250,000 for project implementation. Watch the YouTube video announcing the launch here. Intake Schedule: Intake #1: August 1, 2023, to December 1, 2023; Intake #2: May 1, 2024, to December 1, 2024; Intake #3: May 1, 2025, to December 1, 2025.
• Nation Building Grants - the Nation Building program provides multi-year funding opportunities to First Nations and Tribal Councils in British Columbia to support their nation building activities according to their self-determined priorities. A project or initiative meant to strengthen the institutional, governance, and community capacities in reclaiming and rebuilding resiliency, self-determination, and sovereignty, within each Nation’s own context is considered an eligible project. Deadline: December 1, 2023.
• Youth Grants - the Youth Grant program provides funding opportunities to youth groups in First Nation communities in British Columbia to support inclusiveness, belonging, physical and mental well-being, cultural, traditional, creative, and entrepreneurial activities all geared toward giving First Nation youth the tools, experiences, confidence, motivation, and teachings to be secure in their First Nation identity. Deadline: December 1, 2023.
• Elder Grants - the Elder Grant program provides funding opportunities to elder groups in First Nation communities in British Columbia to improve access and the quality of elder experiences and activities for maintaining inclusion, belonging, cultural, emotional, mobility, health, and physical well-being. Deadline: December 1, 2023.
• Language Grants - the Language Grant program provides funding opportunities to First Nation communities in British Columbia for initiatives that revitalize First Nation languages and supports activities that build capacity to encourage and create new fluent speakers. Deadline: December 1, 2023.
• Declaration Act Engagement Fund (DAEF) - provides multi-year (4 year) non-repayable funding contributions to First Nations to support their capacity to engage with the Province of B.C. on the implementation of the Declaration Act Action Plan and alignment of Provincial laws with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples both of which must be done in consultation and co-operation with Indigenous Peoples in BC. The Declaration Act Engagement Fund will accept new applications during New Relationship Trust’s annual funding cycle between May and December each year.

• Interim Applications for time-limited funding under Sections 8 and 9 of the Indigenous Languages Act 2023-2025. The call for Interim Applications for time-limited funding under Sections 8 and 9 of the Act, developed in partnership with the Assembly of First Nations, is intended to support First Nations efforts in addressing the priorities they have identified to reclaim, revitalize, maintain and strengthen First Nations languages and First Nations governed initiatives in collaboration with federal departments and agencies, and other First Nations, provincial or territorial governments as desired and appropriate. To be eligible for funding, you must be a First Nation organization within Canada. “First Nation organization”, refers to an organization owned and controlled by First Nation persons, including a First Nation-owned corporation or a First Nation-controlled non-profit organization, that directly delivers language revitalization services or that otherwise supports the delivery of language revitalization services. First Nation applicants applying to the Department of Canadian Heritage are required to read the Interim Application Guidelines in its entirety for time-limited funding under Sections 8 and 9 of the Act and contact the Department of Canadian Heritage to request an application package and submit the required documentation. For how to apply and contact information, click here. Application Deadline: Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis for 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 fiscal years.
• Legacy Fund – Building Communities through Arts and Heritage. Building Communities through Arts and Heritage - Legacy Fund component provides funding for community-initiated capital projects, intended for community use. Recipients may receive up to 50 per cent of eligible project expenses up to a maximum of $500,000. For more information and how to apply, click here. Application deadline: Projects must be submitted before the anniversary date of the event or personality to be commemorated.

The Northern BC Indigenous Athlete Grants were created through a partnership between Engage Sport North, I·SPARC, and Local Rental Solutions to assist amateur athletes and teams, who are of Indigenous ancestry and residing in Northern British Columbia, in their pursuits in competitive sports. The purpose of the grants is to provide financial assistance to Indigenous athletes to travel and participate in competitive sport. Grants will be awarded to Indigenous athletes competing in any sport, however, individuals or teams benefiting from this grant program must operate or be located in the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality and/or any of the following Regional Districts; Central Coast, Cariboo, North Coast, Kitimat-Stikine, Builkley-Nechako, Fraser-Fort George and Peace River. This is a revolving grant and is reviewed every 8 to 12 weeks. For more information and to apply, click here.

The Doulas for Aboriginal Families Grant Program (DAFGP) provides grants to increase access to full-spectrum doula services for Indigenous families residing in BC (on- and off-reserve). The DAFGP is offered by the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres, First Nations Health Authority, and the BC Ministry of Health. The goal of the program is to increase healthy birth outcomes for Indigenous families by removing the cost barrier to accessing doula services. The grant program provides Indigenous families living in BC up to $1,000.00 (maximum) of coverage for full spectrum doula support with each pregnancy. For more information and to apply, click here.

Share your Views: Participate in the CIHR Institute of Gender and Health's Listening Tour. The Institute of Gender and Health (IGH) wants to hear from you! Beginning in spring 2023, the IGH team will travel to major cities across Canada to meet with researchers, including trainees and early career researchers, community organizations, healthcare professionals and many other partners, with options for virtual participation. For more information or to complete the online survey, click here.

The Turtle Island Journal of Indigenous Health team is looking for new members! No prior experience is required to apply. These are remote positions open to students and community members across Turtle Island who are interested in promoting TIJIH's vision: Respectful co-learning between Indigenous ways of knowing and western science; Collaborating and partnering with Indigenous Peoples in knowledge generation and capacity-building; Building a community of practice that honours relationality as a model of high-impact engagement. To learn more and apply, click here.

The Support Network for Indigenous Women and Women of Colour (SNIWWOC). SNIWWOC is a Canadian non-profit organization committed to the empowerment of women with food, art, and education. SNIWWOC operates from a holistic and integrative service model that addresses the social, cultural and political realities of women who identify as black, Indigenous, and people of colour (BIPOC). Headquartered in Victoria BC, they offer programs and services in BC, Alberta, and Ontario. Click here to learn more, access services and get involved!

Are you an Indigenous graduate student studying at a BC institution? Submit a selfie of yourself outside, with a short description of yourself (community, institution, program, research interests, etc.) and enter for a chance to win a $50 gift card to your institution’s bookstore! Must be a registered member of the BC NEIHR. Email bcneihr@uvic.ca for more details.

To find out more or to get involved please visit the National website at https://circlesforreconciliation.ca/ or for pre-registration information, visit https://circlesforreconciliation.ca/pre-registration-information/.

IndigiNews is dedicated to covering the news in a way that allows for your stories to be heard, understood and respected. IndigiNews was created through a partnership between Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) and The Discourse. The goal of this partnership is two-fold: first, to provide journalism that serves and is driven by what local communities say they want. Second, to experiment with new business models for digital local news that contribute to the long-term sustainability of independent Indigenous news in Canada. Click here to subscribe to the Indiginews Newsletter and/or to sign up for the email course. You can help decolonize the media by becoming an IndigiNews supporter, visit https://indiginews.com/support-us to donate today.

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