No further business.

This week the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance was proud to announce the unveiling of local Indigenous artwork at its Chatham hospital. Adding art at the Chatham site was made possible by the innovation grant program, which allowed staff, physicians, volunteers and patient advisers to bring forward ideas for positive change that benefits patients and improves the quality of the workplace.

After a call for submissions and voting by the staff engagement council, the successful entries were made by artist Celeste Noah of the Delaware Nation, which now hang proudly in the ambulatory care waiting room, the dialysis waiting room, the intensive care unit family waiting room and in the reflection space. Each piece is accompanied by a descriptive plaque for visitors and patients to learn more about its meaning. Collectively, Noah’s vibrant watercolour artwork reflects the rich history and traditions of Indigenous storytelling. Hospital CEO Lori Marshall and board chair Deb Crawford were both on hand to congratulate Noah and commemorate the installation.

Noah is a self-taught artist who researched and took up the hobby during the pandemic. She stated that she used her knowledge and creativity to paint her people wearing their regalia, colourful, and in motion.

Deb Crawford noted, “Ms. Noah’s artwork serves as a powerful expression of connection to land, tradition, and spirituality.”

I can’t be more proud of our hospital’s exceptional care and this young artist’s successful contribution to this beautiful public space.

Please assign it to the Standing Committee on the Interior.