Joe Hester
Joe Hester was a prominent Indigenous leader and the long-time executive director of Anishnawbe Health Toronto (AHT), a community health organization dedicated to providing culturally informed healthcare for Indigenous peoples in urban settings. Born on April 3, 1947, in South Porcupine, Ontario, Hester devoted over two decades to advocating for Indigenous health rights and spearheading the development of a new 45,000-square-foot health facility that integrates Western medicine with Indigenous healing practices. His commitment to community service and reconciliation left a profound impact, and he was recognized for his courage in advocating for urban Indigenous issues, including during a significant protest in 1999 that improved funding access for off-reserve Indigenous people. Hester passed away on January 31, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of dedication to his people.
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Recent news mentions
Joe Hester was the longtime executive director of the centre who passed away earlier this year.
New Indigenous health centre offers care and a feeling of belonging
Canada· 2025-06-21
Joe Hester devoted much of his life to Anishnawbe Health Toronto, believing that culturally informed health care was a fundamental right.
Indigenous leader Joe Hester built an innovative urban health facilityCanada· 2025-03-05
