Week 7: Indigenous Health Inequalities

Significant disparities in health outcomes experienced by Indigenous peoples compared to non-Indigenous populations, stemming from various social determinants.

Conditions in the environments where people are born, live, learn, work, play, worship, and age that affect a wide range of health, functioning, and quality-of-life outcomes and risks.

Policies and systems related to the protection and well-being of children, often resulting in disproportionately high involvement with Indigenous families.

Indigenous peoples are overrepresented as victims and offenders within the criminal justice system, facing systemic discrimination.

The preservation and transmission of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and knowledge, which are vital to health and well-being.

The sense of belonging and identity derived from cultural practices and traditions.

The passing down of knowledge, beliefs, and practices from one generation to the next, crucial for cultural continuity.

The disruption of cultural traditions and practices, often leading to negative health and social outcomes.

The cumulative emotional and psychological wounding across generations stemming from historical events like colonization and discrimination.

Differential access to goods, resources and opportunities based on racial identity, often embedded in institutional policies and practices, perpetuating health disparities.

The belief that one group of people is inherently superior to another in terms of knowledge and understanding, often used to justify discrimination and inequality.

Unequal access to healthcare and negative health outcomes experienced by specific groups due to past injustices and systemic discrimination.

A holistic view of health that considers the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being connected to culture, land, and identity.

The ongoing and sustained practice of a culture linked to a tradition from the past; it may evolve but maintains ties to its history.

Local Indigenous initiatives integrating cultural practices and community values to improve health within the community.

A demand for fundamental changes in healthcare systems to grant Indigenous governance, address racism, and support Indigenous healthcare professionals.

Studies show strong links between cultural continuity (like practicing local language) and lower youth suicide rates. Communities with more control over their health have lower suicide rates.

A debate over which strategy is more effective for public health—reducing harm (e.g., safe injection sites) or promoting health and overall well-being.

People facing difficult environments may question the value of living, a factor contributing to higher suicide rates.

High suicide rates among Indigenous peoples are connected to the lasting effects of colonization.

Colonization continues to affect Indigenous communities, impacting their well-being and causing trauma.

Instead of focusing on problems, a more effective approach is creating better living conditions for Indigenous people.

Forces that try to make Indigenous people align with mainstream society still exist in systems like child welfare.

Maintaining and fostering Indigenous traditions, practices, and languages is essential for community well-being.

Preserving Indigenous land and allowing for Indigenous self-governance over education systems is important for their well-being.

Language is essential for reviving and maintaining Indigenous cultures and identities, contributing to a sense of purpose.

Community-based approaches, like opioid interventions, are more effective than generalized ones because they address specific community needs.

Mental and spiritual well-being are crucial throughout the entire life cycle of Indigenous people.

The trauma faced by Indigenous women due to colonization, and passed down through generations.