A Response to In Plain Sight: Addressing Indigenous-specific Racism and Discrimination in BC Health

After hearing reports of Indigenous-specific racism in emergency departments in BC, Health Minister Adrian Dix appointed independent investigator Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond to lead an investigation into these allegations, situated and examined within a broader context of Indigenous-specific racism in the provincial health care system.

On November 30, 2020, the In Plain Sight report was released. The report found that Indigenous peoples in BC are exposed to widespread racism that often results in negative experiences at the point of care, inequitable medical treatment, physical harm and even death.

In her talk, Ms. Thomas will highlight some of the 24 recommendations made in the report to address systemic racism in the health-care sector, share some of her own experiences with the health-care system – and discuss some interventions and strategies that have been effective.