Colonialism has disrupted Yukon First Nations (YFN) ways of life, breaking connections to culture, family, and wellness. This has led to poor health outcomes. The healthcare system was not designed by or for First Nations. Systemic racism in healthcare creates policies that harm Indigenous people, weakens care, and increases preventable risks. The Bibia Nàtsät Ku (Strong Babies House) Project tackles the root cause of these barriers. A Ku (house) in Whitehorse will be created to offer YFN and midwifery-led sexual and reproductive healthcare (SRHC) services, bringing back traditional knowledge and practices with the guidance of Elders. Birth workers and midwives will provide culturally safe care, including birth services, in collaboration with doctors, nurses, and other health partners. This project will also train Indigenous students in a culturally supportive setting, building a strong Indigenous workforce and making SRHC more sustainable. This will not only transform SRHC delivery in the Yukon but will also influence systemic change across the Arctic, helping to shape safer, more culturally appropriate care for Indigenous communities.
