Indigenous Peoples in Canada experience significant healthcare inequities compared to non-Indigenous Canadians. These inequities are reflected in higher rates of mortality, chronic diseases, mental health challenges, and suicide, as well as shorter life expectancy. 

Specifically, Indigenous Peoples: 

• Are twice as likely to die from avoidable causes such as heart disease or diabetes. 
• Are three times more likely to experience suicide. 
• Have 1.9-3.9 times higher infant mortality rates, ranging from Métis to Inuit communities. 
• Have an average of 7.8 years shorter life expectancy. 

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action 19 calls upon the federal government to work in partnership with Indigenous communities to establish measurable health goals and publish annual reports on Indigenous health indicators to identify and close these gaps. For generations, the long-lasting effects of colonization and systemic racism within the healthcare system have created barriers to equitable access to care for Indigenous Peoples.

Therefore, implementing Call to Action 19 is crucial because it ensures that Canada’s health system reflects a fundamental principle: access to healthcare is a fundamental human right. As students, we are concerned about these systemic failures and disparities and recognize the importance of speaking up for equity and reconciliation.

We, the undersigned, call upon the federal government to fully implement Call to Action 19 by working closely with Indigenous Peoples to develop culturally appropriate, measurable goals and publish annual reports to ensure accountability and equity in health outcomes.