Honouring Indigenous Disability Awareness Month
November is Indigenous Disability Awareness Month, a time to celebrate the strengths of Indigenous Peoples living with disabilities and to recognize the barriers many still face. At Gateway Holistic Care, we see this month as a chance to listen, learn, and deepen our commitment to reconciliation in disability care.
Land Acknowledgement
At Gateway Holistic, we acknowledge that we operate on Treaty 6 territory and the Métis Homeland, the ancestral lands of the Cree, Blackfoot, Métis, Nakota Sioux, Iroquois, Dene, Ojibway, Saulteaux, Anishinaabe, Inuit, and many others. These lands, known as ᐊᒥᐢᑲᐧᒋᐋᐧᐢᑲᐦᐃᑲᐣ (amiskwaciwâskahikan), have long been places of care, connection, and healing for Indigenous peoples.
As an organization dedicated to supporting individuals with autism and diverse developmental needs, we are inspired by the holistic approaches to care and community embraced by Indigenous cultures. These teachings remind us of the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive, feel valued, and be supported in their unique journeys.
We honor the contributions of Indigenous peoples, past and present, who have nurtured this land and its communities with compassion and wisdom. At Gateway Holistic, we are committed to walking the path of reconciliation by incorporating inclusive practices, amplifying diverse voices, and fostering environments of acceptance and belonging for all individuals, including those with autism and their families. Together, we strive to build a stronger, more compassionate community rooted in respect and holistic care.
Why It Matters
Indigenous Peoples in Canada experience disability at higher rates, yet often face the greatest barriers to care. These barriers are rooted in colonization, residential schools, and systems that were not built with Indigenous families in mind. Families may face funding delays, few supports in rural and on-reserve communities, and care that does not reflect their culture.
Jordan's Principle helps First Nations children get the services they need without delays caused by disputes over who pays. Learn more from Indigenous Services Canada.
Our Commitment to Reconciliation
Many Indigenous teachings see wellness as a balance of body, mind, heart, and spirit, with family and community at the centre. That vision is at the heart of holistic care. Across all our programs, we commit to:
Ongoing learning about Indigenous histories, cultures, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action
Culturally safe care that honours each family's traditions, language, and spiritual practices
Family-led planning that welcomes Elders and extended family
Listening and partnership with Indigenous communities, learning from them rather than speaking for them
How You Can Take Part
Learn whose land you live on
Listen to Indigenous voices, including advocates living with disabilities
Read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's 94 Calls to Action
Support Indigenous-led organizations
Share this post with your community
Walking Together
If you are an Indigenous family caring for a loved one with a disability, we would be honoured to walk alongside you. Our respite care in Edmonton is built around your family's needs, culture, and goals.
Contact Gateway Holistic Care to learn how we can support your family.
