Actions and Commitments

Call to Action # 18: Health (18-24)

Acknowledgement of impact on health of discriminatory government policies

April 7, 2018

“The health outcome gaps are a direct result of previous Canadian government policies… but many of those discriminatory policies that have caused the health outcome gaps remain in place… have their roots in the laws, the policies and the operational practices of this country… They were denied the right to self-determination and subjected to laws, policies and practices that were based on domination and assimilation… Where does the TRC say those rights are laid out? In international law, in constitutional law and in treaties. The path to health, safety and healing starts with the recognition and implementation of inherent treaty rights. Dr. Jane Philpott, Minister of Indigenous Services. Closing the Gap Conference – The Next 150: Reconciliation and Health