Calling on healthcare institutions and policy makers to recognize and incorporate Indigenous healing practices into Western medicine. Indigenous healing carries centuries of knowledge, cultural significance, connection to land and spirit , and calls for a holistic approach to health. 

This petition advocates for the integration of evidence-based Indigenous medicine that empowers Indigenous communities, enhances patient outcomes and creates a more inclusive and effective healthcare system for everyone. 

Western Medicine has made significant advances, but often overlooks cultural, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health, which are cornerstones of many Indigenous medicine practices. Indigenous healing practices include sweat lodges, ceremonies, plant-based medicine, community, rituals which have offered support and wellness for centuries. In spite of research showing that holistic care which includes physical, emotional, and spiritual care tends to lead to better outcomes there are still barriers to implementing these elements into western practice. Barriers include the historical marginalization of Indigenous people, colonization, lack of understanding by the general public and a system that is resistant to change. Now is the time to educate, to bridge this gap to create a more inclusive and effective system that better serves all communities. 

 

Approaches:

Cultural Training - Educate health care providers on Indigenous culture, and healing practices.

Community Partnerships - Collaborate with Indigenous Elders and healers to help incorporate a holistic healing model.

Policy Reform - Change polices and regulations to include and support Indigenous healing practices as one part of treatment/care teams.

Inclusion - Create physical spaces within hospitals where Indigenous healing ceremonies and practices can take place. Employ Indigenous people within the health care system. 

 

Implications and Recommendations:

Improved Health Outcomes - For all patients, but especially for Indigenous patients, who are often ignored, labelled as drug-seeking or mistreated in medical settings.

Reduce Disparities - Culturally informed care will address significant inequities faced by Indigenous communities face when seeking healthcare. 

Holistic Healthcare - All patients benefit from well-rounded holistic care that includes the body, mind and spirit. 

Reconciliation - Exhibiting reconciliation by acknowledging and honouring Indigenous knowledge.

Education - Students and healthcare members in training should learn about Indigenous medicine as part of the regular curriculum to ensure it is included and valued going forward.

Holistic healthcare is patient centered, culturally aware, inclusive and more effective for all patients than the current Western medicine model. By signing this petition you are advocating for all patients and standing with Indigenous Peoples to advocate for an inclusive and holistic system that respects the knowledge of Elders. Join the healing journey by taking this important step towards reconciliation, equity and wholeness for all communities when seeking healthcare services in Canada.