The findings of the report on racism against Indigenous people in health care in our region, completed by Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health and the Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition, are sobering and hold our systems to account. It shows that racism is directly contributing to poor health outcomes, and that complaints about racism go unaddressed. This cannot continue. (Read the full report)
Indigenous people have a right to kind, culturally competent care. We will work closely with Wabano and members of the Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition to take concrete steps to eliminate anti-Indigenous racism and improve access to high-quality, safe, and equitable health care for Indigenous individuals.
On a personal note, I would like to express my profound gratitude for those who have shared their experiences of racism.
By sharing your stories you are driving meaningful change. Thank you.
Joanne Bezzubetz
President & CEO, The Royal