Aboriginal Nurses Association of Canada’s Statement to Honor the work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission

PRESS RELEASE
Ottawa, ON – May 29, 2015

Aboriginal Nurses Association of Canada’s Statement to Honor the
work of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission

The Aboriginal Nurses Association of Canada, as the longest serving Aboriginal health professional organization in Canada with 40 years in existence, offers its steadfast support in honor of the courageous work the Truth and Reconciliation Commission has brought about.

Lisa Bourque-Bearskin, President says “As nurses, we have walked side by side with many survivors of residential schools and their families. Many of our Indigenous Nurses have also survived residential schools directly. We have treated and cared for many in our communities who have struggled to find healing and wellness.”

A.N.A.C. echoes the need for Reconciliation. Now that we have heard the truth, only by working together can we create the healing conditions that can turn this dark chapter and support Indigenous people to step into the light.

Indigenous Nurses know all too well, that there are still many Indigenous people who do not have good health and wellness. Too many Indigenous people find themselves in poor housing conditions, experience a lack of gainful employment, or live in negative coping patterns because their wounds are too deep and they may lack support and understanding.

Collectively, we can make a difference and turn their paths toward something better. Indigenous Nurses stand with Indigenous and non-Indigenous people across Canada to pledge our support, honor and commitment to continue to work hard in making a better future for Indigenous people by taking care of our needs today.

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For more information, please call R. Lisa Bourque Bearskin, President, A.N.A.C., at (780) 690-9517 or send an e-mail to rlbourque@shaw.ca.