10/15/2026
💗 Indigenous Pink Day | Honouring Our Kwewag Across Turtle Island
Today, we join Indigenous communities across Turtle Island in recognizing Indigenous Pink Day, an initiative originating with the American Indian Cancer Foundation to honour breast cancer survivors, support those navigating a diagnosis, remember those we have lost, and encourage conversations about breast health and cancer screening.
Here in the Erie St. Clair region, we are surrounded by the waters that connect our communities across what is now known as the Canada–United States border.
For generations, First Nations families have maintained relationships, kinship ties, traditions, and responsibilities across these waters. Many continue to live, work, travel, and maintain connections across the border, including through rights associated with the Jay Treaty.
Our communities may be separated by international boundaries, but our shared commitment to the health and well-being of our people knows no borders.
Today, we honour our Kwewag (women) — the warriors, survivors, mothers, daughters, sisters, aunties, grandmothers, and Knowledge Keepers whose lives have been touched by breast cancer.
We also recognize the families, caregivers, and communities who walk alongside them, offering love, strength, and support.
Did you know? Approximately 1 in 8 women in Canada will develop breast cancer during their lifetime.
Early detection can save lives. Understanding our bodies, recognizing changes, and participating in recommended breast cancer screening are important ways we can care for ourselves and one another.
Changes such as a new lump, swelling, skin dimpling, ni**le changes, or unusual discharge should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Breast cancer can also develop without noticeable symptoms, making regular screening an important part of preventive care.
In Anishinaabemowin, mino-bimaadiziwin speaks to living a good life. Caring for our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being is part of that journey.
When we prioritize our health, we are also caring for the generations who walk beside us and those yet to come.
Whether someone is preparing for their first mammogram, navigating a diagnosis, undergoing treatment, or celebrating survivorship, nobody should have to walk that path alone.
If you have questions about breast health, screening eligibility, or navigating the healthcare system, connect with your healthcare provider, community health centre, or Indigenous Patient Navigator.
💗 For our Kwewag. For our families. For our communities. For the generations yet to come.
Knowledge saves lives. Screening saves lives. Together, across Turtle Island, we can make a difference.
Miigwetch to the warriors, survivors, caregivers, and advocates who continue to lead the way.
