Developing a policy to address anti-Indigenous racism in health care

Indigenous peoples face negative health outcomes in comparison to the rest of the Canadian population, which is a result of race-based colonial policies and legislation, such as the Indian Act, that continue to effect Indigenous peoples’ health. This capstone project draws on Anti-Racism Theory and Tribal Critical Race theory as they highlight Indigenous perspectives of history, colonization, as well as the systemic nature of anti-Indigenous racism. In examining policies, policy statements, and declarations of commitment, a critical analysis is provided of policy discourses currently in place within health authorities. Through six semi-structured interviews with health authority officials, this research locates a set of policy alternatives designed to address the oppression and harm faced by Indigenous peoples within health care systems in British Columbia. In taking an Indigenous health policy perspective, this policy analysis project lists recommendations towards implementing various initiatives in working towards a policy to address anti-Indigenous racism.