IDEA's Commitment to Reconciliation

We are committed to doing our part to advance the process of Truth and Reconciliation and respond to the Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada and the recommendations from the BC In Plain Sight report.

Specifically, we are working to advance and address the following Calls to Action:

#18  We call upon the federal, provincial, territorial, and Aboriginal governments to acknowledge that the current state of Aboriginal health in Canada is a direct result of previous Canadian government policies, including residential schools, and to recognize and implement the health-care rights of Aboriginal people as identified in international law, constitutional law, and under the Treaties.

#19  We call upon the federal government, in consultation with Aboriginal peoples, to establish measurable goals to identify and close the gaps in health outcomes call upon the federal government to appoint, in between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities, and to publish annual progress reports and assess long- term trends. Such efforts would focus on indicators such as: infant mortality, maternal health, suicide, mental health, addictions, life expectancy, birth rates, infant and child health issues, chronic diseases, illness and injury incidence, and the availability of appropriate health services. 

 #22  We call upon those who can effect change within the Canadian health-care system to recognize the value of Aboriginal healing practices and use them in the treatment of Aboriginal patients in collaboration with Aboriginal healers and Elders where requested by Aboriginal patients.

In addition, IDEA Diabetes is committed to creating safer spaces and advancing the rights of Indigenous peoples' from coast-to coast-to-coast. For our non-Indigenous team members, we acknowledge the place of privilege from which we enter into this work. 

Commitment to Lifelong Learning - We have and will continue to seek opportunities to learn about anti-racism, decolonizing approaches, equity and inclusion, and cultural safety and humility. 

Focus on Relationships as an Element of Cultural Safety - We are intentional in prioritizing relationship-based care and approaches within our work to create safe spaces, prioritize the experience of those we interact with, and strive for high quality services.  We recognize that building relationship does not happen quickly, and requires attention and ongoing commitment. 

Create Equitable and Inclusive Spaces - When delivering workshops and training, we aim to establish an equitable and inclusive space by asking everyone to leave credentials "at the door". This applies to our team as well. We invite people to share about who they are and where they come from, acknowledging the importance and value of each person present, without the hierarchy of roles and credentials.