SIYAC
MANDATE
Is to provide culturally relevant, evidence based prevention programs to prevent HIV, AIDS, and Hepatitis C infection among Indigenous Youth in Saskatchewan.
GOAL
To create an Indigenous Youth Strategy on HIV, AIDS and Hepatitis C (HCV); information on youth resources, factsheets on youth, presentations, video and social media.
Plan of the project and overall goals, to promote spiritual, mental, physical, emotional, and social well-being of people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C (HCV). The Indigenous Youth Advisory Council will bring to life the strategy geared towards the Indigenous Youth population. The implementation of the council will lead forward the initiatives in Saskatchewan to bring life to the future generations in terms of addressing HIV and AIDS from a youth perspective seeking solutions and addressing the issue from a youth perspective.
“The Saskatchewan Indigenous Council on HIV and AIDS (SICHA) envisions Indigenous people(s) exercising their inherent right to determine their wholistic health”. The strategy can be viewed online at http://allnationshope.ca/pages/sk-indigenous-strategy-on-hiv-and-aids.
Indigenous culture and teachings is vital in the form of the project and will be incorporated into every aspect as much as possible. The form of traditional languages, ceremonies of healing, ceremonies of celebration, teachings, dances, songs, drumming, arts, and science. The engagement and involvement of First Nations and Métis Elders will promote ownership in addressing HIV. The promotion of the project will provide access to culturally appropriate HIV, AIDS, & HCV prevention, awareness, education and training to Indigenous people in Saskatchewan. The cultural component is a key element of responding to HIV and AIDS in Indigenous communities.