A path towards relational accountability in British Columbia's health system: Grounding systems transformation in Coast Salish Teachings and Indigenous-specific anti-racism

Abstract

Ongoing settler-colonialism within British Columbia's (BC's) healthcare system excludes First Nations Knowledge systems, perpetuating significant harm and inequities for Indigenous Peoples. Health systems transformation requires centring First Nations land-based laws and Teachings alongside Indigenous-specific anti-racism. The Provincial Health Services Authority's (PHSA's) journey of accepting Coast Salish Teachings gifted by Coast Salish Knowledge Keeper Te Ta-in provides a pathway on embodying relational accountability and distinctions-based approaches. The Teachings inspire people to grow and serve in new ways, embracing the truth of Indigenous-specific racism, incorporating lived experiences of Indigenous Peoples, and doing our best as human beings. Grounded in local First Nations Knowledge and Indigenous thought leadership, PHSA’s approach demonstrates how land-based laws and Indigenous-specific anti-racism praxis can drive transformation to create an anti-racist, culturally safe, and equitable health system in line with the BC Declaration Act on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the In Plain Sight Report, provincial commitments, and legislative obligations.