The new hospital in Fort St. James is now called Nats’oojeh [Nat-Soo-Jay] Hospital and Health Centre, reflecting the Dakelh First Nations heritage.
The name was chosen in consultation with the guidance of Elders and language experts from the Nak’azdli, Binche, Tl’azt’en, Yekooche and Takla First Nations. Nats’oojeh means “everyone healing” in the Dakelh language. The larger meaning is healing through medicine, holistic care, looking after loved ones and helping each other.
Dakelh First Nations were engaged throughout the design process to help ensure the hospital is welcoming and reflective of their cultures and health practices. This includes a spiritual space, smudging area, healing garden, traditional plants and medicines. The building has theme and design elements such as nature and the changing seasons, Indigenous art, and signage in Dakelh, including written words and syllabics.
“Nats’oojeh Hospital and Health Centre is more than just a building, it’s a place where community, culture and care come together under one roof,” said Josie Osborne, Minister of Health. “I’m grateful to the Elders and experts who have guided the process of selecting a name for this facility that reflects the values of the community it serves.”
For more info, read the full BC Gov News release: "Fort St. James hospital name reflects First Nations heritage"