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In recognition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, Doctors of BC honours the survivors of residential schools, the children who never returned home, and recognizes the ongoing injustices as result of that legacy. We acknowledge that systemic and interpersonal anti-Indigenous racism exist within our healthcare system, both of which have deeply affected the health and well-being of Indigenous communities across Canada.
We recognize that physicians, both collectively and individually, have an important role to play when it comes to creating a culturally safe health care system. Great strides have been made, but there is still much work to be done to educate ourselves, to recognize and unlearn colonialism and racism, and to take concrete action to build a health care system free of racism that meets the needs of Indigenous peoples in BC. This is a long-term endeavour that will take continual commitment, humility, and action to achieve.
Doctors of BC is committed to walking with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples on our collective journey to ensure Indigenous patients have access to culturally safe health care. We have embedded a commitment to Truth and Reconciliation as a pillar of our strategic plan, and are developing a Truth and Reconciliation plan in partnership with Indigenous leaders that considers the historical role of the Association and of the profession, and the role we will play moving forward.
We are also committed to supporting physicians on their reconciliation journey. Through the work of the Joint Collaborative Committees (JCCs), we are collaborating with Indigenous partners to provide opportunities for physicians to learn and share the truth of Canada’s oppression of Indigenous people and the ongoing impact of this oppression. More information on our commitment, including ongoing work and programs, can be found on our Cultural Safety & Humility webpage.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an opportunity for us to pause and reflect on the impacts of colonialism and the actions we must take to address anti-Indigenous racism in health care. We will continue to bear witness to, and acknowledge, the harms that Indigenous people have experienced in the past and in the present day. We will also continue to actively foster reconciliation and contribute to a health care system that equitably meets the needs of everyone.
Learning Resources
Indigenous community events
Books for children and adults
Support services
Crisis and mental health and emotional support lines are available 24/7 through: