Call to Action #22

#22. We call upon those who can effect change within the Canadian healthcare system to recognize the value of Aboriginal healing practices and use them in the treatment of Aboriginal patients in collaboration with Aboriginal healers and Elders where requested by Aboriginal patients. (Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action, 2015)

Above is the 22nd call to action as outlined in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s report. This is an important call to action for the following reasons:

Acknowledgment of the importance of traditional Indigenous healing practices- The call to action acknowledges the importance of traditional healing practices in the treatment of Indigenous patients. These practices have been developed over generations and are deeply rooted in Indigenous culture and traditions.

Recognition of the role of traditional healers and Elders- The call to action recognizes the role of traditional healers and Elders in the healing process of Indigenous patients. It emphasizes the importance of collaborating with these individuals in the treatment of Indigenous patients.

Cultural sensitivity and respect- By recognizing the value of Indigenous healing practices and collaborating with Aboriginal healers and Elders, the call to action promotes cultural sensitivity and respect in the Canadian health-care system. It acknowledges the unique needs and cultural differences of Aboriginal patients and aims to provide them with care that is respectful of their culture and traditions.

Addressing past harms- The call to action is part of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s efforts to address the harms of the residential school system and the ongoing impacts of colonization on Indigenous peoples. By promoting the use of tradition healing practices, the call to action aims to address the historical trauma and intergenerational impacts that have resulted from these past injustices.

Overall, the call to action is important because it recognizes the value of Aboriginal healing practices and the role of Aboriginal healers and Elders in the healing process of Aboriginal patients. It promotes cultural sensitivity and respect in the Canadian health-care system and aims to address the historical trauma and ongoing impacts of colonization on Aboriginal peoples.