Walking Side by Side: SFU School of Medicine Hosts Community Engagement Gathering in Katzie Nation Territory
On November 21, the SFU School of Medicine’s Indigenous Perspectives team hosted a Community Engagement gathering in Katzie Nation territory at the Swan-e-set Longhouse.
The event marked a meaningful moment in the School’s journey—a chance to reconnect with Indigenous communities following our official opening and accreditation. We are deeply grateful for the warm welcome and for the opportunity to hear what community members hope to see from the School of Medicine and how they want to see us succeed.
A Gathering of Partners, Knowledge Keepers, and Colleagues
The gathering brought together a wide circle of partners and supporters, including the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA), Métis Nation BC, First Nations from across the Fraser Salish region, local Elders, health directors, colleagues from UBC, and SFU faculty and staff. Their presence and contributions reflected the collective commitment to building a medical school grounded in relationship, respect, and reciprocity.
Guided by emcee Len Pierre, attendees heard from:
- Chris (Syeta’xtn) Lewis, Indigenous Executive Lead, SFU
- Dr. Nel Wieman, Chief Medical Officer, FNHA
- Dr. Rebekah Eatmon, Associate Dean, Indigenous Health, SFU School of Medicine
- Kris Magnusson, Senior Strategic Advisor to the Dean, SFU School of Medicine
Their reflections underscored both the responsibility and the opportunity before us: to build a medical school in close collaboration with Indigenous communities, honouring Indigenous ways of knowing and being at every step.
Witnesses Reflect on What They Saw, Heard, and Felt
One of the most meaningful moments came when witnesses were called to share their observations. They spoke not only to what was said, but to the feeling in the room—the energy, warmth, and collaborative spirit among everyone present. Their reflections reinforced a central truth: this work cannot be done alone. It must be done in community, side by side, with trust guiding the way.
The feedback throughout the day was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed gratitude for the chance to gather, to listen, and to share their hopes for what the School of Medicine can become. The opportunity to speak openly about their aspirations—and to see those aspirations reflected back—was welcomed and appreciated.
Honouring Ceremony, Strengthening Trust
The gathering also included a meaningful presentation of a bentwood box to the FNHA, offered as a symbol of our strengthening partnership.
Chosen to represent the shared goals and vision of both organizations—improving healthcare for First Nations people in BC—the bentwood box embodies the idea that while we come from different places, we can hold relations and support one another in this work.
Created by Spirit Works, an Indigenous-owned and operated company, from a single piece of steamed and carefully bent Western Red Cedar, the box carried both artistry and intention into the ceremony.
As Justin Boehringer, Associate Director, Indigenous Perspectives, SFU School of medicine shared:
“Working in Indigenous health inside a medical school can feel overwhelming at times because of how much colonial history sits on your shoulders. Being in community on days like this, hearing their support and feeling their belief in us, is a powerful reminder that we’re not carrying this weight alone. We're moving forward together, side by side.”
The Community Engagement gathering was more than an event—it was a reminder of why and how we do this work. By listening deeply, learning together, and honouring Indigenous ways of knowing and being, we continue to strengthen relationships and chart a shared path toward a medical school built in, with, and for, community.