Indigenous Priorities

Honouring and supporting Indigenous values and self-determination.

Inclusion and equity for Indigenous communities and First Nations means addressing the inequities and injustices impacting First Peoples. There are 195 Indigenous communities, 34 distinct languages, seven language families, and two isolated language families in the areas United Way BC serves.  

Respectful, reciprocal relationships with these communities and Indigenous Peoples means honouring and supporting Indigenous values and self-determination.

Humility, open dialogue, and continuous learning mark steps on the journey we embark on together to help heal the past and build better presents and futures. United we are building stronger, more equitable communities through education, economic mobility, and health resources. 

Truth and Reconciliation

Recognizing the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada and learning from its lessons and calls to action is an important and intentional focus for United Way BC. This included adopting a Statement of Reconciliation which commits to ensuring the needs and aspirations of Indigenous people are fully acknowledged in United Way BC’s work; to continuing to build partnerships based on truth, dignity, and respect; and to ongoing education in the spirit of reconciliation. Read United Way BC Truth & Reconciliation Reflections 2024. Read our Statement of Support for Truth Finding Work.

Meet the team

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  Andrew Callicum | caaqiyuuš

  Director, Indigenous Priorities

  A member of the Mowachaht/ Muchalaht First Nation on Vancouver Island, Andrew has an academic background in First Nations Studies and has previously worked in leadership roles in both the First Nations and not-for-profit space.

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  Veronika Murray

  Indigenous Relations Lead

  Registered Metis with Cree ancestry, Veronika is currently working towards a Masters degree in Archaeology. In her academic studies, Veronika supports the important archaeological field work that is happening at sites of former Residential Schools.

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  Patricia Prince

  Indigenous Relations Lead

  A member of Takla Nation in BC’s Northern Interior, Patricia has a background in First Nations Studies and has worked in education, health and justice as a liaison and coordinator. She has helped deliver nine babies since the onset of the pandemic and now aspires to be a certified Indigenous Doula.

Community Investments

Community change means action. In 2023/24 United Way BC invested almost $4.6 million in Indigenous communities in collaboration with provincial and federal governments. The funding helped enhance food access and food infrastructure. It provided increased support for seniors and addressed housing needs in partnership with over 50 Indigenous-led organizations throughout BC. This partnership also supported 39 Indigenous-led organizations with their after-school programs for youth, immediate emergency response needs, and promoted Indigenous-led capacity building and community healing.