Canadian Medical Association Issues Apology for Past Harms to Indigenous Communities
The organization representing Canada’s doctors has formally apologized for the harm the medical profession has inflicted on Indigenous Peoples.
On Wednesday, the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) issued the apology during a ceremony in Victoria, with representatives from First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities in attendance.
CMA President Dr. Joss Reimer expressed deep shame over the “deplorable” racism, discrimination, and physical and psychological harm Indigenous people have suffered due to the actions and neglect of physicians, both historically and in the present.
As part of its commitment to reconciliation, the CMA reviewed its historical records related to the treatment of Indigenous Peoples. CMA board member and Mi’kmaw physician Dr. Paula Cashin revealed that this research showed how the association had played a role in embedding and perpetuating systemic anti-Indigenous racism in Canada.
One example was the racially segregated “Indian hospital” system, where Indigenous patients received unsafe and substandard care. These facilities subjected patients to abuse, experimental treatments, and coerced sterilization.
The CMA also acknowledged the medical community’s complicity in the abduction and adoption of Indigenous children during the “Sixties Scoop” and in child apprehension practices that persist today.
Additionally, the association recognized that physicians contributed to systemic racism by using “outdated, racist terms” and embracing “racist, colonial, and paternalistic attitudes toward Indigenous Peoples.”
This long history of mistreatment and neglect continues to affect the health and well-being of Indigenous communities, with many still suffering from inadequate care and preventable health issues today.
“To Indigenous Peoples living in Canada, we apologize to you, we are sorry, we are sorry we have lost your trust and the harms that you, your ancestors, your families and your communities have experienced,” she said.
The association announced plans to review its foundational Code of Ethics and Professionalism to specifically address racism and discrimination. It also pledged to support efforts aimed at increasing the recruitment and retention of Indigenous doctors.
Additionally, the CMA committed to tracking physicians’ progress in addressing these harms and providing regular updates on its Indigenous health initiatives.
