We recognize that First Nations, Inuit and Métis experience disproportionate levels of social, economic, political, and cultural challenges in our province and across the country. These challenges are rooted in colonialism, residential schools, racialization and a political process that has failed to meet the needs of Indigenous peoples.
The BC Nurses’ Union (BCNU) is committed to a genuine and just process of reconciliation based on the calls to action published by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
In the Workplace
As nurses, we are uniquely placed to advocate for the dismantling of systems of oppression, because every day we see how the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities are negatively impacted.
The nursing community can support the calls to action through advocating for: funding of Indigenous healing centres; recognition of the value of Indigenous healing practices; encouragement of government to recruit and retain more Indigenous health care professionals; and, nursing school requirement of all students to take a course in Indigenous health issues.
The delivery of health care should be undertaken in a way that is respectful of Indigenous cultures. It is essential that nurses have a strong foundational knowledge of Indigenous health issues in the context of colonialism, social determinants of health (such as housing, education, food and water security), and current policies and legislation that directly affect the health of Indigenous peoples.
We are responsible and accountable for creating a culture of safety and humility in our relationships with Indigenous people and co-workers. We must take our role in the delivery of direct patient care seriously and use this opportunity to change the status quo.
In our Union
To provide opportunities for Indigenous voices to be heard in the BCNU governance structure, we supported the formation of the Indigenous Leadership Circle (ILC) in 2005. The work of the ILC is to help advance Indigenous health status outcomes and to contribute to creating a more culturally fluent organization.
As a union, we will continue to foster cultural safety and humility by supporting on-going education and raising awareness, both with our members and external partners, of issues vital to the health and well-being of Indigenous peoples.
Christine Sorensen
President, BC Nurses’ Union
