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Indigenous Studies

Indigenous Studies is an interdisciplinary field grounded in the languages, histories, geographies, and contemporary experiences of Indigenous peoples

Health

Overview

Traditionally Indigenous Peoples practice a complex and integrated health care approach that typically connects the emotional, spiritual, physical and mental wellbeing. Indigenous Peoples in what we now call Canada have experienced many health complexities that are linked to colonialism and colonial practices. In addition, the removal of Indigenous Peoples from their traditional lands combined with the destruction and contamination of natural resources have left Indigenous Peoples without access to traditional medicines and have marginalized Indigenous Traditional Knowledge to support health and wellbeing. While the colonial history may be bleak, many Indigenous Peoples are participating in a resurgence of Indigenous Knowledge and taking agency in their healing of their communities.

Web Resources

  1. COVID 19 and Indigenous Peoples: United Nations Permanent Form on Indigenous Issues
  2. Indigenous Health: Government of Canada

DVDs and Streaming


  1. Gather /  Monument Releasing: Apache; Lakota, Yurok - 74 min - Kanopy streaming
  2. Nadine Caron : Canada's first female Indigenous surgeon - 22min - Curio streaming

Please visit our Health Cultural Competence Library Guide for further resources.

Books