Track D: Social, Behavioural and Economic Science
Sexual and Cultural Vulnerability and Risks
Cultural factors influencing HIV vulnerability and prevention
Issue-Based Abstract
Author: Mary Teegee – Director, Child and Family Services Carrier Sekani Family Services (Prince George, British Columbia - Northern)
In partnership with
Author: Barby Skaling - Education Program Coordinator, BC Aboriginal HIV/AIDS Society, Healing Our Spirit (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Title: First Nation Cultural Foundation of Healing
Taking the holistic approach to First Nation Health Challenges in the face of HIV
How third world issues in Canada exists, providing comparative information regarding Government programs and community led programs. Share examples of healing, restoration of communities – to strengthen, enhance and begin and or continue the healing journey
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Issues: Poor Health Status among First Nation People
First Nation people in Canada have the poorest health status in the country. The British Columbia Public Health Officer’s Report confirms that First Nation people have higher rates of chronic illness, suicide accidental death, and infant morbidity. First Nations are more likely to engage in all forms of high-risk activity including drug and alcohol abuse. First Nations in Canada are rated in the World Human Development index on par with third world countries. Factors experienced today contribute to the high rates of HIV/AIDS in First Nation communities.
First Nation communities such as (rural/remote) when a HIV/AIDS outbreak occurs would have serious ramifications and could jeopardize the very existence of the Nation.
Description:
In this presentation, we will discuss the challenges that First Nations face in their low health status. We will look at the historical impacts of colonization and residential schools as being the major factors that contribute to the overall health status of First Nations.
This oral presentation, power point and short film present preliminary successes and challenges of First Nations Health –how history continues to repeat itself and how First Nation remain resilient
Lessons Learned:
Discussion will center on how to engage community in meaningful consultation. How do we ensure that the true voice of the community is being heard? There will also be discussion around what are cultural appropriate programming and the importance of culture in healing. A film will be shown that showcases an initiative of cultural resurgence as the means to health and empowerment.
Recommendation:
Government programs needs to be examined and determine the reasons for its ineffectiveness. Explore and share examples of unsuccessful programming attempts and compare to community led programs. Government must support integrated cultural models such as cultural restoration to communities -provide support services and access to readily accessible health services