Celebrating National Indigenous History Month
Over the past few weeks, CMA President Dr. Alika Lafontaine has led a series of intimate discussions on moving forward, together, on reconciliation. These conversations are part of the tangible steps we’re taking to confront our shared history and build a more inclusive health system. As we celebrate National Indigenous History Month, we reaffirm our commitment to addressing ongoing harms to Indigenous Peoples and amplifying their voices to affect change.
Working in allyship on Indigenous health
The problem: Health is a basic human right. But across Canada, First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples and communities face unacceptable health disparities.
In partnership: Improving health outcomes for Indigenous Peoples must start with Indigenous voices leading the way. In September 2022, the CMA convened a Guiding Circle of 16 First Nations, Inuit and Métis leaders, experts and knowledge-keepers to identify areas of focus for our work on Indigenous health.
The path ahead: On May 24, the CMA publicly articulated our Indigenous health goal, developed in collaboration with the Guiding Circle. By so doing, we recognize the bridge between where we are and where we want to be and acknowledge that we need to walk the path of truth and reconciliation to get there.
Join us: The final session of our Fireside Chats on Indigenous Health will be held virtually on June 12, where we will discuss the meaning and importance of an apology to Indigenous Peoples.
Learn more about how we’re advancing reconciliation in health care.
Keep up with our work on a better future of health.
Events
Speakers announced for 2023 Health Summit
Join us on Aug. 17-18 as we outline our vision for what health care should be at the 2023 Health Summit. Keynote speaker Timothy Caulfield will share tools for combating health misinformation, while Dr. Bonnie Henry and her colleague Dr. Danièle Behn Smith from the BC Office of the Provincial Health Officer will talk about amplifying Indigenous voices in health care. Other speakers include primary care researcher Dr. Tara Kiran, Angus Reid Institute president Shachi Kurl and health reporter Carly Weeks from The Globe and Mail.