This Friday, everyone is encouraged to rally at CN Park for Spirit Bear Day, and honor the Legacy of Jordan River Anderson and "Jordan's Principle".
Karen Barker from West Region Treaty 2&4 Health Services gives us a look at why May 10th is such a crucial day:
"On May 10th, 2016, the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal called for the government to fully implement Jordons Prinicple. although it took several years and further non-compliance orders, May 10th marks this historical day as Spirit Bear Day"
Kristan Forsyth, also from West Region Treaty 2&4 Health Services noted that the tale of Jordan River Anderson is both older, and sadder than the events of 2016,
"Jordan was a First Nations child from Norway House Cree Nation in Manitoba. Born with complex medical needs, Jordan Spent more than 2 years unnecessarily in hospital while the province of Manitoba and the federal government argued over who would pay for his at-home care. Jordan ended up passing away in hospital at the age of 5 years old having never spent a day in his family home."
Kristan further explains that the Anderson family gifted Jordan's name to this movement that ensures First Nation children can access equitable services that are culturally based, and take in to account the many disadvantages faced by First Nations Children.
To celebrate the hard work and great progress this movement has seen, West Region Treaty 2&4 Health Services encourages everyone to attend the gathering at CN Park tomorrow, from 10:30 am to 1:30 pm.
So this Friday, visit CN park for some entertainment, a free BBQ, and activities in honor Of Jordon, and everyone fighting for the health care rights that every child deserves.
