A message from CAM President
In keeping with The Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action # 80, September 30th, Orange Shirt Day, has been declared the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by the federal government. This is a time to honour survivors, their families, communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process. We recognize that there are several provinces or territories which have chosen not to recognize the day as a statutory holiday, and that different employment models mean how this day is marked by our members will vary widely. Regardless of workplace policies, September 30th may be a difficult day for our Indigenous colleagues, and it may be important for them to spend this time with family and community. I therefore encourage settler midwives to support our Indigenous Midwives and co-workers to take the time and space they may need.
We also encourage midwives to take some time to deepen their own understanding, and to connect with the Indigenous communities where public events are held. In particular, I encourage every midwife to familiarize themselves with the National Aboriginal Council of Midwives’ position statements on Evacuation for Birth, Indigenous Child Apprehensions and Forced and Coerced Sterilization of Indigenous People. CAM has endorsed these documents and recognizes that each of these statements offer a concrete response to ongoing colonial violence which is being perpetuated against Indigenous birthers and families to this day. All midwives have a responsibility to act to prevent these trespasses against Indigenous people as we seek to be in good relations with our hosts.
Don’t know where to start? Here are some suggested websites:
National Aboriginal Council of Midwives
https://indigenousmidwifery.ca/
Truth and Reconciliation Commission Reports
https://nctr.ca/records/reports/#trc-reports
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Online Programming
Your Decolonizing Journey Starts Here (online workshops)
https://www.nahaneecreative.com/
Alixandra Bacon, RM (she/her/elle)
President, Canadian Association of Midwives
