Dr. Cheryl Ward, MSW, RSW, EdD

Cheryl Ward is Kwakwaka'wakw from northern Vancouver Island. She and her family have been living as guests on the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw people for the past twelve years.

Cheryl is committed to social justice education, de-colonizing anti-racism training, and the development of cultural safety pedagogy. Over the last 23 years, she has been developing a critical lens on anti-Indigenous racism and while learning intentionally, she has developed tools, approaches and strategies to address racism.

In 2008, Cheryl joined the PHSA Indigenous Health team where she led the design the curriculum, development of the facilitation model and implementation of the San’yas Indigenous Cultural Safety online training program. Currently serves as the Executive Director of Indigenous Cultural Safety Strategy and Indigenous Health. In 2019, Cheryl received her Doctorate in Education. Her thesis, ‘Teaching about Race and Racism: Managing the Indigenous Elephant in the Room’ focuses on interpersonal challenges and resistance to engaging in anti-racism work and provides the foundation for addressing resistance within an organizational context.