The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Statement

2024-09-30

Today the College of Family Physicians of Canada (CFPC) recognizes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a time to honour survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities, while making sure public commemoration of the history and legacy of these schools remains a vital component in the reconciliation process.

Also known as Orange Shirt Day, September 30th encourages conversation about residential schools and the ongoing trauma faced by survivors.

The CFPC acknowledges these harms as well as the harm Indigenous people continue to face in the health care system in Canada and we are committed to systemic change to provide more equitable health care for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people in our sphere of influence.

In 2022 the CFPC, in collaboration with the Indigenous Physicians Association of Canada, made a Declaration of Commitment to Cultural Safety and Humility in Health Services Delivery for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis People in Canada. Through this public and long-term commitment, the CFPC, together with its Indigenous Health Committee, strives to promote culturally safe care and address racism experienced by Indigenous people in accessing health care in Canada.

The CFPC is committed to and continues its journey of cultural safety and humility and offers resources to assist others to do the same.

• Learn about the legacy of residential schools
• Wear an orange shirt or an orange ribbon from an Indigenous business or company, such as the Orange Shirt Society or an approved retailer, to show your support
• Volunteer your time at First Nations, Inuit, or Métis-led events marking the observation of Orange Shirt Day
• Visit Indigenous Health at the CFPC to explore Indigenous health initiatives developed in collaboration with the CFPC’s Indigenous Health Committee, including:
  • Virtual Talking Circle events that gathered CFPC members and staff to learn about and discuss our role in reconciliation (watch for a new series in 2025)
  • Indigenous supplement to the CanMEDS-FM 2017 competency framework, which will help family physicians provide high-quality care that aligns with the needs and circumstances of Indigenous peoples living in Canada
  • Indigenous Health Case Study Compendium to broaden the foundation of knowledge for family physicians, medical trainees, and educators to better engage in care that authentically respects Indigenous peoples’ right to health justice (updated version to include a facilitation guide, expected fall 2024)
  • Infographics that illustrate a specific leadership role a family physician plays when promoting the health of Indigenous people at the individual, practice, and community levels: Collaborator, Communicator, Medical Expert, Health Advocate, Leader, Professional, and Scholar
• Watch The Unforgotten, a short film about the health and well-being of Indigenous people in Canada, and reflect using the Indigenous Health Committee resource list for the film

“The legacy of residential schools continues, not just for survivors, but their families, friends, and communities,” said Dr. Mike Green, CFPC President.  “I witnessed the CMA apology that took place September 18th. Our Indigenous colleagues called upon us to move forward together and ‘share the weight of change’ as they also point to the need for real change to be guided by Indigenous people and communities if it is to happen in a good way. I hope that you will join me in stepping up to do so and am grateful for the friendship and guidance that both the CFPC and myself personally have been privileged to enjoy from our colleagues and partners at the Indigenous Physicians Association of Canada as we continue on this journey of reconciliation.”

Dr. Mike Allan, the CEO and Executive Director of the CFPC, was invited to attend the CMA apology and said he was in awe by the stories shared September 18th.

“I am consistently struck by the power of the stories and teaching of Elders and this event was emotional, enriching, and influential. This was an important step in long journey for medical community. The event, the organizers, and all the Indigenous participants did an exceptional job setting us on this vital journey."

“By allowing ourselves to learn and to not hide or run from our discomfort, we will be able to continue our journey of understanding, challenge perceptions, and create a health care system that is culturally safe for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people in Canada.”

We recognize that Sept 30th can be difficult for Indigenous people, including Indigenous physicians, medical trainees, and other health professionals, and staff. If you need support, please call the Indian Residential Schools Crisis Line at 1-866-925-4419 or visit the newly developed Canadian Medical Association resource.