On September 30, we mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It is a time for all of us to remember the tragic history and ongoing impacts of residential schools-and to honour those who never returned home, survivors, as well as their families and communities.
Along with wearing orange on this day, we can honour survivors by deepening our awareness of the history of residential schools, participating in community events, and listening to the experiences of former residential school survivors. Today is a day to reflect on the past, acknowledge the current realities and look ahead at working together to address the inequalities that continue to impact First Nations, Inuit and Métis across Canada.
Systemic racism, resulting from long-standing oppressive and discriminatory practices, remains embedded in Canada's health care systems. It particularly impacts Indigenous people, who continue to experience systemic racism and discrimination when accessing health services.
When we balance the medicine wheel and strive to keep everyone well-physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually-we foster health care systems where Indigenous Peoples have equitable access to compassionate, trauma-informed and culturally competent care, wherever they live.
To this end, the Addressing Racism and Discrimination in Canada's Health Systems Program was created in 2022 and has since supported 20 projects that improved equitable access to safe, inclusive and culturally appropriate health services, and address racism in a way that is informed by lived experiences of Indigenous people and racialized communities in Canada.
In addition, while many Canadians struggle with mental health issues, we know that Indigenous populations are at a higher risk of experiencing mental illness and face unacceptable intersecting barriers in accessing mental health and substance use services and supports. As a way of addressing these disparities and promoting positive mental health for everyone, the Government of Canada is working on distinctions-based approaches to a Mental Health and Wellness Strategy, including culturally appropriate services for addictions and trauma, suicide prevention and life promotion, and the building of treatment centres.
Hope for Wellness provides free, immediate emotional support, crisis intervention, or referrals to community-based services to all Indigenous Peoples. Access experienced and culturally sensitive help line counsellors at 1-855-242-3310 or through the online chat at www.hopeforwellness.ca.
As we listen and learn from Indigenous people, we must ensure that our health care systems are informed and guided by their lived experiences. Racism and discrimination have no place in our society, and we must continue working together to ensure our future is inclusive, healthy and safe for everyone.
The Honourable Mark Holland, P.C., M.P.
The Honourable Ya'ara Saks, P.C., M.P.
