Recognizing systemic racism in our institutions: the beginning
Like the very first recommendation of the coroner, Géhane Kamel, following the tragic death of Joyce Echaquan, the Fédération interprofessionnelle de la santé du Québec believes that recognizing systemic racism is the key to beginning true reconciliation. The FIQ adds its voice to that of the coroner for the Government of Québec to send a strong signal that Ms. Echaquan’s death will not be in vain.
While recognizing that racism may have contributed to the perceptions of caregiving staff, the implementation of better supervision and clinical support, as well as the implementation of ratios are among the recommendations made by the coroner to ensure safe care for the patients. Lastly, fostering relationships through training are also promising avenues to move towards more respectful and non-discriminatory care.
Remember that the FIQ adopted Joyce’s Principle at its last convention. Developed by the Manawan Atikamekw Council and the Atikamekw Nation Council after the tragic death of Joyce Echaquan, Joyce’s Principle aims to guarantee all Indigenous people a right to equitable access, without discrimination, to all health and social services, as well as the right to enjoy the highest attainable standard of physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. The FIQ will set up a committee in the coming weeks to ensure measures combatting racism are developed.