Every Child Matters: Resources for SHA Staff

A message on behalf of Nicole Ferguson, Director, First Nations and Métis Relations, Saskatchewan Health Authority

Every Child Matters is more than a phrase — it is a call to action.

It reminds us of the children who were taken to residential schools, many of whom never came home.

It calls on all of us to make sure no child is ever forgotten and that the harm from those schools is never repeated.

As part of the Saskatchewan Health Authority’s (SHA) commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and our SHA CARES values of compassion, accountability, respect, equity and safety, we are accountable for providing resources to help staff learn and take part in this important movement.

Across Saskatchewan, many SHA facilities have Indigenous Health staff who can answer questions, offer cultural guidance, and share educational materials. Knowledge Keepers, Elders, and Cultural Support Workers are part of the First Nations and Métis Health team. They can be invited to lead smudges, prayers, or teachings for staff and patients.

In urban centres, there are community events and learning opportunities connected to Every Child Matters. These may include walks, teachings, film screenings, and public talks. Participating in these events is a way for SHA staff to show support and learn from survivors and their families.

SHA resources include articles, videos, and training modules on Indigenous health and history. Staff can take part in Indigenous Cultural Responsiveness training to learn about the history of colonization, residential schools, and how this history still affects Indigenous health today. Staff can also reach out to truthandreconciliation@saskhealthauthority.ca for further resources.

Health care is about caring for the whole community. We cannot have true health without truth, respect, and understanding. Knowing Indigenous history and culture helps us deliver care that is safe, inclusive, and culturally informed. Orange Shirt Day is a chance to wear our shirts, attend events, and reflect on our role in reconciliation. It is also a time to commit to learning and action all year round.

Every child matters — and in the SHA, that means every patient, every family, and every community we serve. Let’s continue learning and working together towards a healthier future.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation events: 

• Prince Albert: In honor of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Prince Albert Historical Museum is offering free admission. Visitors are encouraged to wear orange in support of residential school survivors. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Saskatoon: Saskatoon Tribal Council: Every Child Matters Pow Wow: September 28 – 30, 2025.
• Regina: Mackenzie Art Gallery: Rawlco Radio free admission in honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2025.