Doctors of BC Acknowledges National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

The Doctors of BC has issued a statement in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, observed annually on September 30. In their statement, they paid tribute to the survivors of residential schools and the children who never returned home, acknowledging the ongoing injustices that have resulted from this dark chapter in Canadian history.

The organization has highlighted the existence of systemic and interpersonal anti-Indigenous racism within the Canadian healthcare system, which has had significant adverse effects on the health and well-being of Indigenous communities across the nation. They noted that physicians, both as individuals and as a collective, have a vital role to play in creating a culturally safe healthcare system. They emphasized that while progress has been made, significant efforts are still needed to educate themselves, recognize and unlearn colonial practices, and actively work towards establishing a racism-free healthcare environment.

The Doctors of BC have expressed their ongoing commitment to partnering with British Columbia‘s Indigenous communities, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples. They are developing a Truth and Reconciliation plan in collaboration with Indigenous leaders. This plan considers both the historical role of the association and the broader medical profession, as well as the proactive steps needed in the future.

In support of physicians on their reconciliation journey, the Doctors of BC are collaborating with Indigenous partners through the Joint Collaborative Committees (JCCs). These collaborations aim to provide opportunities for physicians to learn about and understand the truth of Canada‘s oppressive history towards Indigenous peoples and the longstanding impacts of these actions.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation offers an opportunity for reflection on the impacts of colonialism and encourages collective discussions on combating anti-Indigenous racism in healthcare. It serves as a reminder to continue acknowledging the historical and present-day harms experienced by Indigenous peoples.

Meanwhile, the Town of Innisfil is hosting a community event to commemorate the day. Residents are invited to attend a sunrise ceremony at Innisfil Beach Park, where Kelly Lavallee of Sitting Turtle Healing and Consultation will lead the event. Lavallee remarked, “The reason I do sunrise ceremony for days like September 30 is because it’s a day for reflection and intention… We honour all those that never woke up to see another day.”

The ceremony, featuring a sacred fire, encourages participation in a circle of sharing and listening. Attendees are asked to gather at the lakeside pavilion.

Throughout the year, community members are encouraged to engage in the reconciliation process by accessing available resources and continuing the work of Truth and Reconciliation beyond the commemorative day.