June 20, 2025

Our biweekly update keeps you informed on our network projects and initiatives! Below are a few highlights. Make sure to check out the latest issue below.

In this Issue:

• Honouring Indigenous leadership in research

• New series: Why a distinctions-based approach matters

• Rita’s Kidney Check experience

• Meet Grace Salomonie

• Teachings from Elder George Laliberte

• Watch: Tamara Beardy on living kidney donation

• July 2 webinar: Kidney health in Black communities

Celebrating National Indigenous History Month

At Can-SOLVE CKD, we are proud to work alongside First Nations, Inuit, and Métis patient partners, Knowledge Keepers, and community leaders to improve kidney health through culturally grounded, patient-oriented research initiatives.

Guided by the Indigenous Peoples’ Engagement and Research Council (IPERC), we are committed to embedding Indigenous governance, knowledge systems, and cultural practices across our work. From culturally safe care to distinctions-based research, our journey is shaped by Indigenous voices.

This National Indigenous History Month—and every month—our call to action is to challenge ourselves to learn and unlearn with humility.  We hope you’ll engage with and share the stories and resources in this newsletter and be an advocate for change. Authentic engagement and reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples is a continuous journey.

To learn more about Indigenous-led projects and resources on our website, click the button below.

Honouring the distinct cultures of Indigenous Peoples

Although commonly referred to collectively as Indigenous peoples, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities hold distinct cultures, histories, and relationships to health. In this first article of a new three-part series, IPERC members Heather Talbot, Catherine Turner, and Letitia Pokiak share reflections that challenge assumptions and emphasize the importance of cultural specificity in care and research.