CMA apologizes for harms to First Nation, Inuit and Métis Peoples

Posted on September 18, 2024 by Peggy

The Canadian Medical Association says it is “deeply ashamed” and “deeply sorry” for the past and present harms the medical profession has caused to First Nation, Inuit and Métis Peoples.

The apology was issued in a ceremony in Victoria held on the traditional territory of the lək̓ʷəŋiʔnəŋ-speaking people of Songhees and Xwsepsum Nations.

“The racism and discrimination that Indigenous patients and health-care providers face is deplorable,” said CMA president Dr. Joss Reimer.

“We acknowledge there are ripple effects on future generations. We take ownership of the CMA’s history, and we are committed to righting our wrongs and rebuilding our relationship on a foundation of trust, accountability and reciprocity.”

The apology cited specific examples of harms, including:

The Indian Hospital system which embedded systemic racism and discrimination in the Canadian health system.
Forced and coerced sterilization.
Forced medical experimentation on Indigenous children in residential schools, including forced malnourishment.
Medical experimentation on Indigenous adults.
Child apprehensions.
Neglect and abuse.

The CMA’s first Indigenous president said Indigenous and non-Indigenous individuals need to “lift together so the CMA can move forward with authentic change.”

Two doctors in hospital gowns and masks look over medical monitors. — Dr. Alika Lafontaine, right, who was the first Indigenous person to lead the Canadian Medical Association, spoke at the CMA apology ceremony. (Dr. Brian Goldman/CBC)

“It’s a chapter that we hope First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples can write with us together as we work toward a health system that provides Indigenous Peoples with the right care, at the right time, in the right place, in a good way,” said Dr. Alika Lafontaine.

“I feel solidarity and empathy. I feel hope that things can be different,” he said.

The ceremony featured singers, drummers, dancers, musicians and storytellers.