National Diabetes Framework Engagement
Indigenous Engagement on a National Diabetes Framework
In July 2022, IDEA Diabetes was selected by the National Indigenous Diabetes Association (NIDA) to lead a nation-wide engagement process with Indigenous peoples consistent with the requirements in Bill C-237 and the National Framework for Diabetes.
CLICK IMAGE TO VISIT REPORT ONLINE
Our focus in this engagement was to honour Indigenous people from coast-to-coast-to-coast by hearing their stories and ideas to form a pathway forward that will shape the future of diabetes for several generations. In keeping with the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action we facilitated a process to honour the truths about diabetes for Indigenous peoples, determined how to reconcile them and identified actions to create a pathway emerge for a better future for all Indigenous peoples.
Our first step to guide the process was to create an Indigenous Advisors Circle which included Indigenous changemakers and knowledge keepers from coast-to-coast-to-coast, with representation from First Nations, Inuit and Métis people, and a diverse range of ages, genders, and experiences. These Advisors guided the pace and steps for the stories to emerge in a good way.
There is also be a film component which captures and share the stories and insights that emerge through this engagement process. This work was done by the very talented team at Makwa Creative.
This engagement process occured between November 2022 and June 2023, with individuals, families, communities, and organizations sharing their thoughts, concerns, and recommendations.
About Bill C-237 and the National Framework for Diabetes
On June 21, 2021, Bill C-237, An Act to Establish a National Framework for Diabetes, received royal assent. The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), with assistance from the Morris J. Wosk Centre for Diabetes (BC), undertook a phased national virtual engagement process from February – May 2022 to support the development of the framework. The Framework, which was released October 5, 2022, aims to provide a common policy direction to address diabetes in Canada, including for populations at elevated risk of developing diabetes, people living with diabetes and their caregivers, Indigenous populations, non-governmental organizations, health care professionals, researchers, and all levels of government. It lays the foundation for collaborative and complementary action by all sectors of society to improve access to diabetes prevention and treatment, and ensure better health outcomes for people living in Canada. For further reading about the national process and framework development, please visit the links below.
- Bill C-237 - An Act to Establish a National Framework for Diabetes
- Framework for Diabetes in Canada
- Informing a Framework for Diabetes in Canada: Framework Engagement Summary
Indigenous Engagement Process from Coast-to-Coast-to-Coast
Although the Framework includes the perspectives of several Indigenous stakeholders, in keeping with the Government of Canada's commitment to reconciliation and the right of Indigenous Peoples to self-determination, this nation-wide Indigenous-led engagement process on diabetes occured to ensure that the unique rights, interests and circumstances of the First Nations, Inuit, and Métis are acknowledged, affirmed, and reflected in the supports available for Indigenous Peoples and communities affected by diabetes. For more information on how to continue sharing, visit the National Indigenous Diabetes Association website.
Contact the Project Team
For more information about the National Indigenous Engagement Process as a component of the National Framework for Diabetes in Canada and the role of IDEA Diabetes, please contact Jessica t'łisala Guss, Project Lead, at
The image above represents Indigenous way of knowing in health care in incorporating traditions, respect and harmony within ourselves and all creatures on Mother Earth. It is the artwork of Mance Granberg, a a two Spirited Abenaki artisan from Quebec. It has been purchased and shared with permission. About the artist: Mance gains inspiration from mother earth, and circles because of how there is no beginning and no end, and how we are all infinitely connected. Circle represent creation, Creator, Mother Earth, Grandmother Moon and Grandfather Sun. He is an activitist and core organization of Revolution of the Heart: A Ceremonial Action (with others who are activities in the community). He is a former Indigenous Circle member and believes in Equity, Inclusion and Diversity and his art reflects that. To access further art by Mance, you can visit his Facebook page.