Each Sep. 30, Canada observes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It is a day to honour the victims and survivors of residential schools, along with the families and communities impacted. It is also a day to reflect on our shared history and what reconciliation requires of each of us.
Calls to Action 18 through 24 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada speak directly to health. They call for equitable access and culturally safe care for Indigenous Peoples. This includes measurable goals to close gaps in health outcomes, recognition of Indigenous healing practices, and cultural competency training for all healthcare professionals. They also call for skills-based training in intercultural competency, conflict resolution, human rights and anti-racism in medical and nursing education.
Familiarizing ourselves with these calls is a necessary step toward changing how we serve our communities. Read Calls to Action 18 through 24, consider how they apply to your work, and commit to making reconciliation part of your everyday practice.