Follow Us! Like Our Page!

Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak Welcomes Apology from Canadian Medical Association

Press Release

(September 18, 2024 – Unceded Algonquin Territory, Ottawa, Ontario) — Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak issued the following statement today in recognition of the Canadian Medical Association’s (CMA) national public apology for its role in the harms done to Indigenous Peoples in the health system.

“Today marks an important turning point in the long history of discrimination, abuse and neglect inflicted on First Nations peoples through the medical system,” said National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak. “We have seen how systemic racism in healthcare has led to mental, emotional and physical harm for First Nations and the many tragic cases that could have been prevented.”

“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.”

―30―

The Assembly of First Nations (AFN) is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern.

For more information please contact:

Genna Benson
Director, Communications
Assembly of First Nations
604-340-3117 (mobile)
gbenson@afn.ca

Jamie Monastyrski
Press Secretary
Office of the National Chief
(613) 612-7229 (mobile)
jamiem@afn.ca

ILR4

NationTalk Partners & Sponsors Learn More