MGH campus transformation
MGH’s campus transformation continues with major renovation work. Patients and visitors can expect to experience noise, hallway closures and detours around the hospital. Learn more about our campus transformation.
MGH’s campus transformation continues with major renovation work. Patients and visitors can expect to experience noise, hallway closures and detours around the hospital. Learn more about our campus transformation.
Last updated: July 13, 2023
Michael Garron Hospital (MGH) continues to advance Truth and Reconciliation efforts with Indigenous communities following the closure of The Aboriginal Healing Program on May 1, 2022.
In late 2021, MGH was made aware of concerns from community members regarding the Indigenous identity of the individual responsible for leading the hospital’s Indigenous services and programming. These concerns were taken seriously and acted upon. This individual retired and is no longer working for the organization.
In order to take restorative action and rebuild trust with the Indigenous community, we embarked on a community-led process of Truth and Reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Toronto and across the traditional territory.
Acknowledging truth must come before Reconciliation. MGH has learned of the harmful impact on community members who sought trusted advice, counsel, care and meaningful connection to their spiritual identity and Indigenous way of being. The hospital has gained a deeper understanding of its impact and accountability to the community and commits to implementing more rigorous processes and policies to verify proof of Indigeneity.
MGH has prepared a Statement of Acknowledgement that takes accountability for the harm imparted on clients and anyone impacted by their association and/or participation in The Aboriginal Healing Program. This statement will initiate a vital process of community engagement, listening and healing to help inform the future creation of a Truth and Reconciliation Action Plan by Indigenous people, for Indigenous people.
At MGH, we endeavor to live out our values of compassion, integrity, respect, inclusion and courage. This means being accountable for our actions and taking ownership and responsibility, especially when our actions cause harm to others.
Through this community engagement process, we hope to:
In January 2023, a Community Reconciliation Advisory Group was formed to provide advice to guide the actions of MGH that supports healing and Reconciliation and meets the needs of Indigenous communities.
The Advisory Group is comprised of external Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, Elders and health partners who are giving their time, efforts and wisdom to support this work. Representatives of the Advisory Group do not represent their nation, employer or any other affiliation.
We are deeply humbled and grateful to the Advisory Group for their guidance, counsel and commitment to healing, Truth and Reconciliation.
Bob Goulais, Co-Facilitator Diane Longboat, Co-Facilitator
Les Harper Patti Pettigrew
Jeff D’Hondt Michael Milward
Emily Simmonds