Rooted in two decades of building trust: Unity Health’s new Indigenous Health Research Stream – Unity Health

June 26, 2026

A new research stream dedicated to supporting a vibrant, connected community of Indigenous researchers has launched at Unity Health Toronto.

The initiative, called the Indigenous Health Research Stream, is founded on the knowledge that research led by and accountable to Indigenous communities can help rebuild trust and reshape how care is delivered.

It is co-led by Dr. Mikaela D. Gabriel (Mi’kmaq) and Dr. Janet Smylie (Metis), who both hold Canada Research Chairs. The stream is rooted in Indigenous values and principles and grounded in the firm belief that this work deserves to be uplifted, resourced, and reflected across every health discipline.