Policy Team

AHMA advocates for the distinct needs of Indigenous housing & service providers in order to advance policy and legislation goals in a meaningful way.

For AHMA, policy is relationship-driven and involves building connections with key government decision-makers before decisions are made about major policies, legislation, and budget allocations. AHMA does this effectively by communicating its priorities to the right contacts at the right time, which has proven to be a successful strategy for making change.

While advocacy has always been a key function of AHMA’s work and mandate, we have recently undergone substantial growth in the public policy space to increase our presence at relevant decision-making tables and to ensure that the voices of Indigenous Housing providers in BC and their concerns are being listened to and addressed. This shift responds to AHMA’s key priorities outlined in the Urban, Rural and Northern Indigenous Housing Strategy (URNIHS), which provides strategic direction to AHMA and underscores the need for AHMA to engage in policy and program development to enhance the delivery and quality of affordable housing. It also helps AHMA meet its responsibilities listed in the Indigenous Social Housing Management Agreement (the document which governs AHM and BC Housing’s relationship), including:

  • Participating in housing policy and program development with all levels of government; and
  • Providing representation, leadership and support for the management and delivery of quality affordable housing for Indigenous people in British Columbia.

AHMA regularly makes government submissions advocating for more culturally safe, trauma-informed, and equitable approaches to Indigenous housing in BC. Click here to read more.

Today’s challenges addressed in tomorrow’s policies

We start early to shape a housing initiative and inform the budget. We address critical housing issues such as people experiencing homelessness by ensuring programs are designed to meet unique needs regardless of regions. By anticipating issues before a program is implemented, we set it up for success.  

As a member, we advocate for your  key issues and find commonality among others so that today’s challenges are considered in public policy and decisions for tomorrow. Where possible, we help members access funding and program opportunities.

Policy Makers 

Find out out more about how to strengthen government policy, contact us [email protected]

Members

Learn how members can highlight their key issues so they are recognized in government policy, or access funding and program opportunities. AHMA membership.