In June 2020, allegations of racist activities in B.C. health facilities came to light. This led to a full investigation by the provincial government, and the release of recommendations in the In Plain Sight Report.
Interior Heath’s Board of Directors acknowledges that systemic racism exists in health care in B.C. against First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples.
To all the clients, employees and physicians within Interior Health who have experienced racism, we apologize.
Cultural humility requires our ongoing commitment to honouring each person’s unique experience and perspective. We commit to respecting and reconciling this long history of injustice.
As part of this commitment, Interior Health unveiled two new policies earlier this year: Anti-Racism Policy and Aboriginal Cultural Safety and Humility Policy. This work continues through educational opportunities for our staff, raising Indigenous voices in our Interior Voices podcast and other channels, and continuing to develop and promote diverse hiring practices.
“I know that we all agree this must change,” says Susan Brown, President & CEO, Interior Health. “That’s why it is so important to deal directly with racism and focus on Indigenous cultural safety and humility.
“Everyone who comes to our health-care facilities or accesses our services deserves culturally safe care with respect and dignity - anything less is unacceptable.”
Resources
- KUU-US (Indigenous) Crisis Line - 1-800-588-8717
- Métis Crisis Line - 1-888-638-4722
- Aboriginal Patient Navigator Services
