About Us
Since 1997, the Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network now CAAN Communities, Alliances & Networks has been a leading voice for First Nations, Inuit and Métis (Indigenous) Peoples living with HIV and AIDS, Hepatitis C (HCV) and other sexually transmitted infections (collectively referred to as STBBI) from coast-to-coast-to coast. Our research, programs and policy work is grounded in Indigenous
Ways of Knowing and Doing (IWKD), guided by the voices of Indigenous Peoples living with HIV (IPHAs) and conducted through community and strengths-based lenses. In this way, we provide accurate, up-to-date and culturally responsive resources to support Indigenous leadership, organizations and communities on this land now called Canada, and around the world. Our head office is in Fort Qu'Appelle, Saskatchewan, on Treaty 4 Territory and the traditional homelands of the Métis nation. Our Eastern office is on the Millbrook First Nation, in Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia. CAAN staff are based across the land—from the Atlantic to the Pacific coasts. We are guided by the concept Miyo-Pimatisiwin, a Nehiyaw (Cree) word that loosely translates to ‘living the good life.’ Miyo-Pimatisiwin resonates deeply with many Indigenous Peoples across Canada, as it describes the importance of relationships, cultural identity, and connection to the land. Miyo-pimatisiwin is how we ground this work to serve our communities and kin.
