CNA recognizes the enduring impact of colonial practices and policies on the well-being of generations of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Anti-Indigenous racism continues to persist today, resulting in profound harms. We are committed to following the leadership of Indigenous governments, organizations, and communities in the development and application of culturally specific, self-determined solutions. Supporting these endeavours is pivotal for effecting sustainable transformation within the health-care system and nursing. Doing so can improve care outcomes and be a step toward eradicating racism against First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities in Canada.
Guided by Indigenous voices in nursing
A message from Stephanie Tuurngaq Gilbert, CNA board director
As an Inuk, registered nurse, CNA board director, and member of the CNA Indigenous advisory council, I am sharing some essential resources for all nurses and CNA members. Please familiarize yourself with the following and take them forward in your practice to contribute to reconciliation.
This is the 10th year since Orange Shirt Day started to bring awareness to the harmful legacy of residential schools. It has grown to include the concept of Every Child Matters. Now, in solidarity, we mark our calendars on September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The survivors of residential schools want their history taught so that it won’t be repeated. Many resources are available that give guidance to all levels of government, education, justice, child and youth welfare, and health systems. CNA and other health organizations and associations across Canada and around the world can protect future generations by taking action.
To that end, the Indigenous advisory council has called upon CNA to work towards a reconciliACTION plan to incorporate changes to the way it governs itself and represents the nursing profession, and the way it conducts its advocacy work, policy development, and strategic planning. CNA has not only agreed to answer this call, but is enthusiastically and actively working on it.
Stephanie Tuurngaq Gilbert, RN, BN, CRN
CNA Board Director
Working together towards reconciliation and healing
CNA is dedicated to engaging with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities to enhance the nursing profession by:
- Upholding the calls to action outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
- Advocating for self-determined, culturally specific, safe solutions to anti-Indigenous racism within nursing and the healthcare system.
- Respectful allyship with our partners in their endeavours to enhance the quality of life and health outcomes for all First Nations, Inuit, and Métis patients and families.
- Fostering a holistic, organization-wide approach to developing and implementing a reconciliACTION plan, guided by the wisdom of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis governments, organizations, advisors, and partners.