A commitment to doing better: Responses to the CMA’s apology to Indigenous Peoples

Press Release

On Sept. 18, on the traditional territory of the lək̓ʷəŋiʔnəŋ speaking people of Songhees and Xwsepsum Nations (Victoria, BC), the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) apologized for its role, and the role of the medical profession, in past and ongoing harms to First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in the health system.

But our journey does not end there. This apology must be followed by action – to eradicate racism in the health system, to uphold the rights of Indigenous Peoples to access safe, culturally appropriate care of the highest quality and to ensure Indigenous learners and physicians have the respect and support to thrive in the profession.

“The CMA’s respectful engagement with First Nations, Metis and Inuit people on traditional lands is a meaningful step forward,” said Chief Betsy Kennedy, the spokesperson for the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, in a statement about the apology. “The upcoming actions of the CMA will be pivotal in demonstrating the authenticity of this commitment to reconciliation.”

To realize meaningful change, the CMA cannot, and should not, act alone. We humbly thank the First Nations, Inuit and Métis leaders, Elders and Knowledge Keepers for their guidance on moving forward in a good way and will continue to work with them in partnership and reciprocity. This apology is also offered to inspire and support other medical organizations on their own critical journeys of reconciliation. The work ahead is ours to do.

Here are some of the responses to the CMA’s apology from Indigenous leaders, and statements from physicians and medical association representatives committed to doing better.

I welcome this apology and acknowledgement of harm from the Canadian Medical Association, as well as the action plan for reconciliation in healthcare. As one of the largest and most historic organizations representing physicians in Canada, their leadership can spark change for many more health service providers and medical professionals. We will continue to support the organization’s work toward a more equitable health system from coast to coast to coast.

Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak, Assembly of First Nations National Chief

This apology is a crucial step towards reconciliation and healing. Now it is up to all of us in the medical profession to follow with concrete action. For advocacy organizations like CAPE, this means living our commitment to environmental health and justice by collaborating on and supporting initiatives that promote Indigenous health, sovereignty, and environmental stewardship and that uphold and advance the human rights of Indigenous peoples.

Dr. Melissa Lem, family physician and president of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment

The SOGC reaffirms its commitment to advancing culturally safe and equitable care for Indigenous patients. We recognize the importance of cultural safety and humility in transforming the health care environment into one in which Indigenous patients feel respected, safe and valued.

The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada

We offer our apology for the role we have played, either actively or by being passive onlookers, as harm has been committed by the medical profession to First Nations, Inuit and Métis individuals and communities.

Dr. Gavin Parker, president, and Dr. Sarah Lespérance, immediate past president of the Society of Rural Physicians of Canada

We expect the CMA action to serve as an opportunity for concrete, positive change within the Quebec government and its institutions. The recognition of systemic discrimination is a crucial step towards reconciliation and the implementation of tangible actions to ensure equity and justice for our populations.

Derek Montour, president of the FNQLHSSC board of directors

We take everyone’s health, safety and well-being to heart, as does the CMA. Our mission is to protect the public by ensuring the quality of medical services and the ability of healthcare professionals to work collaboratively in safe, respectful environments that foster their growth.

Dr. Mauril Gaudreault, president, and Dr. Pierre Gfeller, CEO, of the Quebec College of Physicians

As physicians, we have a pivotal role to play in creating change in the healthcare system. We must start with acknowledging the harm and educating ourselves around how we can better provide culturally safe and appropriate health care to our Indigenous patients. We understand that apology without further action is incomplete.

Dr. Krista Cassell, president of the Medical Society of Prince Edward Island

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