Independent First Nations Alliance

The Independent First Nations Alliance (IFNA) is a First Nations-led Tribal Council that provides customized support to five member communities in northwestern Ontario: Whitesand First Nation, Lac Seul First Nation, Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug, Pikangikum First Nation, and Muskrat Dam First Nation. These communities, three of which are fly-in only, face unique challenges in accessing healthcare services due to their remote locations.

IFNA’s mission is to help its member communities advance their priorities and develop healthy, sustainable futures. With a deep respect for Indigenous knowledge and traditions, IFNA works collaboratively with community leaders to deliver programs in health, education, housing, and economic development. Their approach is rooted in traditional consensus-building and guided by the voices of the people they serve.

Reclaiming Birth: A Data-Informed Journey

In recent years, IFNA has made significant progress toward reclaiming traditional birth practices. One of the steps on this journey involved leveraging data from BORN Ontario. The initiative, featured in BORN’s Reclaiming Birth story, highlights how IFNA used BORN data to identify gaps in maternal care and advocate for the reintegration of Indigenous midwifery in their communities.

Historically, Indigenous midwives played a central role in community health, but colonization and systemic changes led to the decline of traditional birth practices. Today, IFNA is working to reverse that trend. With support from a Community Readiness Grant, IFNA conducted a comprehensive assessment using both quantitative and qualitative data to explore the feasibility of establishing an Indigenous Midwifery Program. 

This program aims to provide culturally safe prenatal, birth, and postpartum care, while also offering education and support for youth and expectant families. By using BORN data to inform their strategy, IFNA is not only addressing healthcare gaps but also restoring cultural practices that are vital to community well-being.

Looking Ahead

IFNA’s work exemplifies how data can empower communities to reclaim their narratives and shape their futures. Their partnership with BORN Ontario demonstrates the potential of collaborative, culturally informed approaches to healthcare planning and delivery.