Indigenous Cultural Safety
Our Commitment to Indigenous Cultural Safety
Indigenous Cultural Safety refers to the importance of recognizing and honouring Indigenous ways, beliefs, traditions and the importance of holistic care, which is inclusive of all family members. At Island Prostate Centre (IPC), we are on a journey, guided by what we have learned, and continue to learn, through our own knowledge gathering and a process of seeking dialogue with Indigenous peoples, communities, governments and organizations. It is our responsibility to pursue cultural learning and engage in respectful conversations with Indigenous peoples to understand how this knowledge impacts how we do our work in helping individuals and their families.
We understand the importance of meeting people where they are at, providing support in a manner that ‘fits’ with patients and that family plays a critical role in healing and overall wellness.
Indigenous Cultural Safety Defined
First Nations Health Authority defines Indigenous Cultural Safety as an outcome based on respectful engagement that recognizes and strives to address power imbalances inherent in the healthcare system. It results in an environment free of racism and discrimination, where people feel safe when receiving health care.
As a community-based health organization, we know how important it is to consider a person’s cultural background and find ways to combine western (scientific) healing methods with traditional healing methods. We are committed to building relationships with Indigenous peoples and their communities, developing trust and reciprocal learning where patients feel both welcomed to share what is important to them and will return for continued support.
We recognize the impact of power, privilege and that personal biases in healthcare systems have negatively impacted opportunities for quality care and relationship building. Ensuring that Cultural Safety principles are at the heart of the care relationship is of utmost importance, especially during such a difficult time in a person’s life. Recognizing that patients need to have a voice in their care plan and can make decisions that will impact their lives and contribute to positive health outcomes is what we aim to accomplish.
We acknowledge with respect and humility the Coast Salish, Nuu-chah-nulth and Kwakwaka’wakw Peoples on whose unceded traditional territories Island Prostate Centre offers programs and services. Specifically, we acknowledge the Lekwungen speaking peoples of the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations whose traditional territory our office is located, and whose ongoing relationships to these lands and waters shape their governance, cultural and ceremonial practices, and self-determination, which should inform how we work together, seek knowledge, and relate to this place.
The land is what hosts us. May we build strong working relationships will all local Nations in our responsibility to the land, truth and reconciliation.