RMH Implements New Land Acknowledgement
January 21, 2025
(Lindsay, ON) – Ross Memorial Hospital’s Board of Directors have approved a land acknowledgement for use at the hospital.
Ross Memorial Hospital’s (RMH) land acknowledgement reads as follows:
‘Ross Memorial Hospital is located in the territory of the Michi Saagiig covered by Treaty 20 and the Williams Treaties. We acknowledge that the land in which we are gathered on here today has been held by Indigenous Peoples since time immemorial. We honour and respect their relationship with the land, water, animals, and the many gifts that they provide.
Ross Memorial Hospital is committed to providing culturally competent healthcare and walking the path of Reconciliation. We view continued learning and the creation of space for Indigenous stories and representation as essential to this work. We encourage you to embark on your own learning journey.’
The development of the land acknowledgment was led by RMH’s Belonging, Respect, Dignity and Diversity (BRDD) Collaborative, in consultation with the Truth and Reconciliation Community Bobcaygeon.
RMH’s BRDD Collaborative was formed in October 2023 to align with RMH’s strategic plan, which plays a key role in bringing equity concerns to the attention of leadership and creating a positive, inclusive work environment. In addition to the new land acknowledgement, the work being done by RMH’s BRDD Collaborative has resulted in:
- RMH hosting educational events including a blanket exercise, a guest speaker to help implement revisions to the hospital’s smudging policy, as well as video presentations pertaining to Truth and Reconciliation.
- RMH leaders and Board of Directors completing Indigenous Cultural Safety Training.
- Signage featuring Ojibwe, Cree syllabics, and Mohawk languages posted throughout the hospital.
- An anonymous survey that is currently open to RMH staff and physicians to identify equity, diversity, and inclusivity areas of focus for 2025 that will provide the greatest immediate impact for team members and the community.
Quotes
“RMH’s land acknowledgement policy is intended to demonstrate the hospital’s respect for Indigenous cultures and foster awareness among hospital staff, professional staff, and volunteers. Acknowledging the land offers respect for Indigenous peoples and their connection to the land, honours their history, and supports reconciliation efforts. It raises awareness about Indigenous cultures, promotes inclusivity, and encourages reflection and responsibility toward fostering positive relationships and collaboration.”
- Kelly Isfan, President and CEO, Ross Memorial Hospital
"Truth and Reconciliation Community Bobcaygeon is truly encouraged by RMH's leadership and commitment to learning from Indigenous communities and individuals as it takes steps to respond to Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action. Reconciliation is a big process requiring a lot of love, commitment and support. As with all important relationships, it is an ongoing process requiring continued communication, connection and effort. We look forward to seeing how the relationships grow and deepen in the years to come."
-Truth and Reconciliation Community Bobcaygeon
Additional Link
-30-
For more information, contact
Ryan Young
Communications and Public Affairs Officer
Ross Memorial Hospital
M: 705-328-4548