opinion: we must prioritize indigenous-led solutions to improve health outcomes
if government, industry and advocates can collaborate with indigenous leaders, we can achieve meaningful solutions that promote health equity and empower communities to thrive.
2 minute read
margaret kisikaw piyesis
is the chief executive officer of caan communities, alliances & networks.
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indigenous peoples in canada are disproportionally impacted by hiv and viral hepatitis. while our communities represent just five per cent of canada’s total population, they make up 18.2 per cent of all new hiv cases and are two to five times more likely to contract hepatitis c than non-indigenous groups. 1 2
it is time to address these inequities by making sure the support our communities need is available. we know there are many paths that have led our brothers and sisters to develop these health issues and their journey towards healing requires approaches rooted in indigenous ways of knowing and doing.
the first step is to recognize the unique challenges faced by indigenous peoples and prioritize culturally aligned programs that truly address their needs. if government, industry and advocates can collaborate with indigenous leaders, we can achieve meaningful solutions that promote health equity and empower communities to thrive.
when assessing how to address health disparities, working with indigenous communities in a way that connects with their culture, languages and teachings is paramount for several reasons:
- respect for indigenous traditions: indigenous communities have unique cultures, traditions and governance structures that deserve recognition and respect. working in a culturally-aligned manner acknowledges and upholds indigenous sovereignty.
- historical trauma and systemic oppression: indigenous peoples have faced centuries of colonization, cultural genocide and systemic oppression, resulting in deep-rooted trauma and mistrust of institutions. when we collaborate on solutions that centre indigenous teachings, we prioritize healing and empowerment that fosters trust.
- cultural relevance and effectiveness: first nation, inuit and métis communities possess traditional knowledge and practices that are integral to their health and well-being. culturally-adapted interventions are more likely to resonate with community members, leading to greater engagement and outcomes.
- addressing health disparities: systemic barriers continue to hinder individuals from accessing traditional medicine and clinical treatments. indigenous-led approaches consider the social, cultural, and environmental determinants of health, leading to more tailored and holistic interventions.
- building sustainable partnerships: culturally-aligned engagement fosters long-term relationships built on trust, reciprocity and mutual respect. this paves the way for sustainable partnerships that prioritize indigenous leadership and self-determination.
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earlier this year, caan communities, alliances & networks, in partnership with gilead sciences canada, awarded funding to nine indigenous community organizations across the country through the glows indigenous health grant. through the grantees’ initiatives, the glows grant aims to advance health equity in hiv and viral hepatitis by breaking down structural barriers to care and championing the empowerment of indigenous peoples to autonomously shape their path to healing.
in essence, working with indigenous communities in a culturally aligned way is not only a matter of ethical responsibility but is also crucial for achieving positive health outcomes and fostering meaningful, equitable relationships. the glows grant is a significant step forward in building connection and improving health outcomes within indigenous communities. my hope is that this program can serve as an example of how existing health systems can work with indigenous communities to enable real change.
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1canadian aboriginal aids network. caan undrip action plan. march 2023.
2dunn, k. p., williams, k. p., egan, c. e., potestio, m. l., & lee, s. s. (2022). echo+: improving access to hepatitis c care within indigenous communities in alberta, canada. canadian liver journal, 5(2), 113–123.
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