Recognition of Truths
Through dialogue and wisdom shared by our partners and Indigenous Strategy Advisor, we acknowledge the following truths:
- The first Indian Act, passed in 1876, established a legislative framework that enabled the displacement and assimilation of Indigenous peoples. The Indian Act remains active legislation in Canada, continuing to affect many Indigenous peoples today.
- Residential schools were central to assimilation policies. Within these schools, children suffered abuse and died in shocking numbers.
- Over six years, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission heard from more than 6,000 witnesses who bravely shared their lived experiences.
- Reconciliation requires understanding that the most harmful impacts of residential schools include the loss of pride, self-respect, and respect from others. These impacts must be considered within the broader context of colonization, which affected First Nation, Inuit, and Métis peoples differently due to variations in policy and implementation across Canada.
Building Towards Reconciliation
As Health Workforce Canada grows, we remain committed to advancing reconciliation through meaningful actions:
- Collaborating with Indigenous partners to support cultural safety for all who provide and receive care.
- Increasing our organizational capacity by ensuring ongoing cultural capability learning opportunities within the team.
- Hosting the second Health Workforce Canada Connects Symposium, in Vancouver, in October 2025, featuring Elder involvement and support, Indigenous speakers and participants, and relevant topics.
- Co-creating a pan-Canadian Health Workforce Data Strategy with partners across Canada, recognizing the need for collaborative Indigenous-specific data initiatives.
We will continue to learn and acknowledge truths, becoming better allies in this ongoing journey.