October 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, and the Saskatchewan Health Authority has recognized the day and its intent by reaffirming its commitment to advancing the TRC’s Calls to Action.
A release from the SHA states that the reaffirmation agreement was signed by SHA Board Chair Arlene Wiks, SHA Chief Executive Officer Andrew Will and members of the SHA Traditional Knowledge Keeper Advisory Council during an event that included participation from First Nations, Métis and health system leaders from across Saskatchewan.
“The Saskatchewan Health Authority’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation is a demonstration of the dedication of SHA staff, leadership teams and volunteers to be inclusive and respectful in all that they do in delivering quality care to everyone in this province,” said Board Chair Arlene Wiks. “By signing this reaffirmation today, the SHA is continuing our commitment to enhancing health outcomes with Indigenous people across the province and working collaboratively with First Nations and Métis communities to achieve this goal.”
Following its initial commitment in 2019, SHA initiated a number of additional actions focused on equitable, accessible and culturally responsive health care, including:
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Implementing a Traditional Knowledge Keepers Advisory Council to guide organizational initiatives;
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Increasing cultural safety and anti-racism training for staff and physicians;
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Targeted actions to increase the number of First Nations and Métis people working within the SHA;
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Implementing retention and advancement opportunities for Indigenous employees;
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Building closer partnerships with the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations, Métis Nation–Saskatchewan, and other First Nations and Métis organizations.
“The SHA is committed to providing quality care and striving to achieve health equity for First Nations and Métis people by addressing barriers that exist in accessing this care,” said SHA CEO Andrew Will. “We are focused on advancing reconciliation by closing the gap in health outcomes that exists between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, building a health workforce that is more representative of the communities we serve, and partnering with Indigenous communities across the province to meet the needs of First Nations and Métis people.”
The statement can be found on the SHA website.