1 of 1 2 of 1 This article first appeared in the Straight ’s sister publication, Capital Daily . Sign up for Capital Daily’s free newsletter here . In a historic precedent, the Canadian Medical Association (CMA) issued a formal apology on Wednesday (September 18) to Indigenous Peoples from across Canada for its history of human rights abuses and neglect.
The 157-year-old association had a lot to answer for. “We have not lived up to the ethical standards the medical profession is expected to uphold to ensure the highest benefit of care is provided to patients,” said Dr. Joss Reimer, current President of the CMA.
“We realize we have left Indigenous peoples out of that high standard of care.” The apology itself was plain and direct. “To Indigenous Peoples living in Canada, we apologize to you,” said Reimer to the 200 guests gathered from across the country.
“We are sorry. We are sorry we have lost your trust and for the harms that you, your ancestors, your families, and your communities have experienced. We acknowledge there are ripple effects on future generations.
We take ownership of the CMA’s history, and we are committed to righting our wrongs and rebuilding our relationship on a foundation of trust, accountability, and reciprocity.” The apology was a damning acknowledgement of a colonial and white supremacist system that consistently prioritized doctor’s incomes and advancement over the health and wellbeing of Indigenous people. The system also enga.