The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) invites you to join us for “Bear Witness Day” as we honour the life and legacy of Jordan River Anderson.
Jordan passed away at the age of five after facing barriers in accessing the care he needed.
His story sparked a movement for change and led to the creation of Jordan’s Principle—a child-first principle that ensures First Nations children can access the same public services as all other children, without delay or denial.
Today, Jordan’s Principle stands as a symbol of hope. It raises awareness and helps address the systemic inequalities First Nations children continue to face in health care, education, and social services.
Bear Witness Day is celebrated each year on May 10 because this is an important date in the history of Jordan’s Principle at the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal.
The Tribunal’s first non-compliance order called for Canada to fully implement Jordan’s Principle by May 10, 2016. It took several more years and many non-compliance orders (September 2016, May 2017, November 2017, November 2024, and January 2025) against Canada before real progress was made. There is more work to be done.
Bear Witness Day reminds us of our shared responsibility to ensure Jordan’s Principle is fully upheld—so every First Nations child receives the care they deserve.
While Bear Witness Day falls on May 10, SCO is inviting you to join us in celebrating Jordan River Anderson on Friday, May 8:
At SCO’s office: 1572 Dublin Avenue, Winnipeg, Treaty One Territory
From 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
Enjoy food and refreshments! Enter our draw for a chance to win youth door prizes and one of four $100 grocery gift cards.
Learn more about SCO’s Jordan’s Principle Program.
