Bear Witness Day
May 10th marks Bear Witness Day, where we celebrate and honour our children including those with extraordinary needs.
This day is Spirit Bear’s birthday and an important date in the history of Jordan’s principle at the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal. The tribunal’s first non-compliance order called for Canada to fully implement Jordan’s Principle by May 10, 2016.
It took several more years and many non-compliance orders against Canada before progress was finally made. Jordan’s Principle is a child-first principle and legal rule named in memory of Jordan River Anderson.
It ensures that First Nations children will receive the services and supports they require when they need them. Siksika’s children and youth have utilized Jordan’s Principle to meet their various health and educational needs.
Bear Witness Day is recognized and celebrated nationally, and this day highlights our children and youth, promotes children’s equity for health and wellness in our community and it creates acceptance for all children. The message shared is that all children matter including our children who have different abilities.
Siksika Health strives to support families and children in their wellness journey. We hope this day will encourage conversations that promote acceptance and reduce the stigma that may be associated with disabilities.
