In Indigenous philosophies, truth comes before reconciliation. That process isn’t always simple, however; uncovering truth often necessitates uncomfortable or unfamiliar conversations that invite us to see old issues in a new way. This idea was distilled for me years ago by Ted Quewezance, a residential school survivor and past Chief of Keeseekoose First Nation in Saskatchewan: “People are usually ready to share with us their trauma,” he said. “It’s us who aren’t ready to hear it.”
For Ted and the countless patients, families, communities and First Nations affected by the legacy of colonialism and systemic racism in health care, the medical profession must lean deeply into conversations that centre people living through these experiences.
In confronting the disparities faced by Indigenous Peoples – poverty, food insecurity, inadequate housing, lack of access to care, culturally unsafe health experiences and lack of support for traditional health models, among many others – we must uncover truth on our way to change.
As the CMA’s first Indigenous president, I’m honoured to be leading a series of virtual discussions on how we can move forward on reconciliation in health care and toward a better future.
The three sessions will focus on the importance of cultural safety in health care for patients and providers (May 10), improving the health of Indigenous Peoples (May 24) and the meaning and importance of an apology to Indigenous Peoples (June 12). I’ll be joined by author and journalist Tanya Talaga and other guests, as we share various perspectives on these important topics.
Register now to join the series, part of our commitment to tangible action in allyship with First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples.
Dr. Alika Lafontaine President, Canadian Medical Association
Latest News
Assessing Canada’s Health Accords 2000–2023
Last month, Ottawa tabled a new budget, with health funding including $196.1 billion over 10 years. Is it enough to buy change? A new report commissioned by the CMA analyzes how the latest federal funding package stacks up against previous health accords and how provinces and territories are held to account for spending.
In advance of Earth Day this Saturday, learn more about how the CMA is advocating for a climate-resilient, net-zero health system to mitigate the impacts of climate change and ensure a healthier future.
The link between physician burnout and patient care
“Physicians are being squeezed more and more. Even the narrow window where they’re supposed to breathe between patients is gone.” — Claire Snyman, health advocate
Physician and patient wellness are inextricably linked. Meaningful actions to rebuild health care need to take these parallel experiences into account.
Hear from members of the CMA Patient Voice advisory group about their lived experiences navigating health care and ideas for mitigating stress and tension on both ends of the stethoscope.
Stay connected with the CMA:
Canadian Medical Association, Suite 500-1410 Blair Towers Place, Ottawa, Ontario, K1J 9B9