Unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-waututh) Nations / Vancouver | September 18, 2024 — In response to the Canadian Medical Association’s apology for past and ongoing harms to First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in the Canadian health system, Dr. Melissa Lem, family physician and CAPE president, said:

“As President of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE), I commend the Canadian Medical Association for its apology to Indigenous Peoples for its role and that of the medical profession in perpetuating harm within our healthcare system.

“This apology is a crucial step towards reconciliation and healing. Now it is up to all of us in the medical profession to follow with concrete action.

“For healthcare institutions and professionals, this means working collaboratively with Indigenous leaders to address ongoing systemic issues and ensure equitable care.

“For advocacy organizations like CAPE, this means living our commitment to environmental health and justice by collaborating on and supporting initiatives that promote Indigenous health, sovereignty, and environmental stewardship and that uphold and advance the human rights of Indigenous peoples.

“Indigenous communities still experience environmental racism and health inequities. These are never acceptable. With commitment and collaboration, together we can build a healthier, more just healthcare system for all.”

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The livestream of the CMA’s apology can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/live/L-0v3sbwEpI

CAPE media contact:

Reykia Fick, Communications Director, Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE), 647-762-9168, media@cape.ca