Confront the harsh reality: Indigenous Peoples in Canada experience far worse health outcomes compared to non-Indigenous Canadians. In Alberta, the staggering disparities in life expectancy, infant mortality, diabetes, and suicide rates between Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations are a direct result of colonization, racism, intergenerational trauma, and persistent socioeconomic inequities. Yet these devastating gaps are not inevitable – with awareness, allyship, and collective action, we can and must close them.
Stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities leading the charge for health equity. Support Indigenous-led health initiatives, such as the Alberta Aboriginal Health Program, that provide culturally safe care by and for Indigenous Peoples. Urge governments to honor treaty obligations and increase funding for Indigenous health services, as recommended by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. Together, let’s dismantle the systemic barriers that enable such shameful disparities to endure in 2023.
Understanding the Disparities
Higher Chronic Disease Burden
Indigenous communities in Alberta face a disproportionately high chronic disease burden compared to the general population. Rates of diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and other long-term health conditions are significantly elevated among First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples. For instance, the prevalence of diabetes is 3-5 times higher in indigenous populations than in non-indigenous Canadians. This stark inequality stems from a complex interplay of social, economic, and historical factors that have created barriers to accessing nutritious food, safe housing, quality healthcare, and preventive services in many indigenous communities.
Healthy Living Alberta is committed to supporting indigenous peoples in managing and preventing chronic diseases. Our resources, developed in partnership with indigenous health leaders, provide culturally relevant information on healthy eating, active living, stress management, and disease self-management. We also connect individuals with local programs and services, such as diabetes education workshops and traditional healing practices, to support their journey towards wellness. By working together to address the root causes of health disparities and empower indigenous communities, we can reduce the burden of chronic disease and promote health equity for all Albertans.
Barriers to Preventive Care
Indigenous people in Alberta face numerous barriers to accessing preventive healthcare. Geographic isolation is a major challenge, with many communities located far from health facilities and services. Poverty also plays a significant role, as financial constraints can limit access to transportation, healthy food, and other resources essential for maintaining good health. Racism and discrimination within the healthcare system can make indigenous people feel unwelcome or misunderstood, leading to a reluctance to seek care. Cultural barriers, such as language differences and traditional beliefs, can further complicate communication and trust between patients and providers.
These social determinants of health intersect to create significant obstacles for indigenous people in accessing screening, primary care, and health education that could prevent illness. Addressing these disparities requires a multi-faceted approach that includes improving infrastructure, expanding culturally appropriate services, and building trust through community engagement. By working together to dismantle these barriers, we can help ensure that all Albertans, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to live healthy, fulfilling lives.
Root Causes of Inequality
The roots of indigenous health inequities run deep, tracing back to the legacy of colonialism in Alberta and across Canada. The forced displacement of indigenous peoples from their traditional lands, the suppression of their languages and cultural practices, and the intergenerational trauma inflicted by the residential school system have had profound and lasting impacts on the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of indigenous communities.
These historical injustices laid the groundwork for ongoing marginalization and systemic barriers that continue to shape indigenous health outcomes today. Racism and discrimination within the healthcare system itself often lead to poorer quality of care and mistrust of medical institutions. Limited access to culturally appropriate health services, especially in remote communities, further compounds these disparities.
Moreover, the disruption of traditional diets and lifestyles due to colonial policies has contributed to disproportionately high rates of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease among indigenous populations. The loss of land, language, and cultural identity has also taken a heavy toll on mental health, with increased prevalence of depression, addiction, and suicide.
Understanding these deep-seated root causes is crucial for addressing indigenous health inequities in a meaningful way. It requires acknowledging the ongoing impact of colonialism, working to dismantle systemic racism, and supporting indigenous-led initiatives to revitalize traditional healing practices and strengthen community resilience. Only by confronting this difficult history and its present-day manifestations can we hope to close the gap and ensure health equity for all indigenous peoples in Alberta.
Paths to Health Equity
Empowering Indigenous-Led Solutions
Across Alberta, indigenous communities are taking the lead in designing and implementing health programs that address the unique needs and challenges they face. These community-driven initiatives combine modern medical practices with traditional knowledge and cultural approaches to wellness, resulting in more effective and sustainable solutions.
One shining example is the Siksika Nation’s Wellness Centre, which offers a holistic approach to health that encompasses physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. By incorporating traditional knowledge and practices, such as sweat lodges and elder counseling, alongside conventional medical services, the center has successfully engaged community members and improved health outcomes.
Similarly, the Maskwacis Health Services in central Alberta has implemented a range of programs that prioritize cultural safety and community engagement. From diabetes prevention workshops that incorporate traditional foods to mental health support groups led by local elders, these initiatives demonstrate the power of self-determination in addressing health disparities.
As these examples show, empowering indigenous communities to develop and lead their own health solutions is crucial to closing the gap in health outcomes. By supporting and learning from these successful models, we can work towards a future where every Albertan, regardless of background, has access to culturally appropriate, high-quality healthcare.
Partnering for Change
Achieving health equity for indigenous peoples in Alberta requires a collaborative effort from both indigenous and non-indigenous communities. By working together to dismantle systemic barriers, build trust, and share resources, we can create a path forward that ensures equal access to quality healthcare for all.
One way to get involved is to educate yourself about the unique health challenges facing indigenous communities and the historical and social factors that contribute to them. Seek out resources from indigenous-led organizations and listen to the experiences and perspectives of indigenous individuals.
Another important step is to support indigenous-led initiatives and organizations working to improve health outcomes. This can include volunteering your time, donating resources, or advocating for increased funding and support from government and healthcare institutions.
Building relationships and partnerships between indigenous and non-indigenous communities is also crucial. Look for opportunities to collaborate on health initiatives, share knowledge and best practices, and create spaces for open dialogue and understanding.
As individuals, we can also take steps to create more inclusive and culturally safe healthcare environments. This can include learning about indigenous cultural practices and values, advocating for the integration of traditional healing methods into mainstream healthcare, and supporting efforts to increase indigenous representation in healthcare professions.
By working together and taking action, we can make progress towards achieving health parity and creating a more equitable and just society for all Albertans.
A More Equitable Future
Imagine an Alberta where indigenous communities thrive, enjoying the same level of health and wellbeing as all Albertans. By working hand-in-hand with indigenous partners, we can create a future where the shameful legacy of colonialism no longer dictates health outcomes. Through respectful dialogue, culturally-appropriate services, and equitable access to care, we can close the gap and ensure every indigenous person has the opportunity to lead a healthy, fulfilling life. This vision is within reach if we commit to sustained action and stand together in solidarity. The path forward is clear – now it’s up to all of us to walk it with courage and determination. In doing so, we’ll not only improve indigenous health, but also advance reconciliation and build a stronger, more just Alberta for all.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the health inequities faced by Indigenous peoples in Alberta are a complex and urgent issue that demand our attention and action. By understanding the historical and ongoing impacts of colonialism, racism, and systemic barriers on Indigenous health outcomes, we can begin to dismantle these inequities and build a more just and equitable society for all.
As Albertans, we each have a role to play in this critical work. Whether it’s educating ourselves about Indigenous cultures and histories, supporting Indigenous-led health initiatives, or advocating for policy changes that address the root causes of health disparities, every action makes a difference. By working together in a spirit of respect, humility, and solidarity, we can create a future where every Indigenous person in Alberta has the opportunity to live a healthy, thriving life.
At Healthy Living Alberta, we remain committed to advancing Indigenous health equity through our programs, partnerships, and advocacy efforts. We will continue to listen to and learn from Indigenous communities, and to use our platform to amplify Indigenous voices and solutions. Join us in this vital work, and let us move forward together on the path to reconciliation and health justice for all.