Have a Heart Day

(Dr. Cindy Blackstock- Photo By: Christine McFarlane)

Have a Heart Day

By: Christine McFarlane

Dr. Cindy Blackstock, a member of the Gitxaan Nation and Executive Director for the First Nations Child and Family Caring Society reminds us every February 14, to ‘Have a Heart’. A champion for the cause, Blackstock utilizes the day to draw attention to one of the most vulnerable sectors of society; Indigenous children.  

Her vision is to have a generation of First Nations children who are given the same opportunities to succeed, celebrate their culture and be proud of who they are, just like other children in Canada.

Her “Have a Heart Day’ initiative is about supporting First Nations children to grow up safely at home, get a good education, be healthy and be proud of their cultures. She works to bring all Canadians together to ensure First Nations children have proper services.

You can help by sending a Valentine’s Day card or letter supporting Have a Heart Day to the Prime Minister and your Member of Parliament, by hosting a Valentine’s Day party to raise awareness in your school or community, or by spreading the word through social media like YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook. Explore the Have a Heart Day website to send an e-Valentine, or to order Have a Heart Valentine’s cards, posters, bookmarks, and buttons! ( http://www.fncaringsociety.com/have-a-heart)

Most of all, please have a heart so that First Nations children don’t need to fight for services every other Canadian can enjoy.