At Northreach Society in Grande Prairie and Fort McMurray, we are honored to recognize and acknowledge the Treaty 8 territory. We extend our gratitude to the Beaver, Cree, Dene, and Métis communities whose enduring relationship with this land allows us to work, live, and grow in these regions.
For over fifteen thousand years, Indigenous peoples have stewarded these lands, and we deeply respect the wisdom of the Elders, past and present.
Indigenous Harm Reduction & Health Initiatives
Understanding addiction as a health issue rather than a moral failing is crucial. The First Nation’s Health Authority promotes this view, offering resources that help diminish the stigma around drug use. Their efforts include fact sheets, personal stories, and educational videos, all available on their website.
CATIE has a comprehensive report titled “Indigenous-Centred Approaches to Harm Reduction and Hepatitis C Programs,” providing insights into tailoring health initiatives to meet the unique needs of Indigenous communities. The full report is accessible https://www.catie.ca/sites/default/files/catie-indig-rep-2020-enb.pdf
The Native Youth Sexual Health Network (NYSHN), an organization led by and for Indigenous youth, addresses sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice across North America. More about their impactful work can be found on their platform. https://www.nativeyouthsexualhealth.com/
Alberta Health Services offers a detailed directory of Indigenous Health services, organized by province and region, available https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/info/Page11949.aspx
The International Network on Hepatitis in Substance Users (INHSU) showcases “Connecting with Care,” a video series that includes a feature on a successful hepatitis C program in Ahtahkakoop, Saskatchewan. This program highlights the critical roles of relationship building and the integration of Indigenous culture in health care. https://inhsu.org/
Moreover, the Interagency Coalition on AIDS and Development emphasizes the necessity of incorporating Indigenous perspectives in harm reduction strategies. This approach involves addressing the broader impacts of colonialism and focusing on the well-being of Indigenous communities beyond the conventional health services like needle exchanges and naloxone distribution. A relevant policy brief and additional resources are available https://www.casw-acts.ca/en/interagency-coalition-aids-and-development-icad
Through these initiatives, Northreach Society commits to supporting the health and well-being of Indigenous communities by respecting their heritage and integrating culturally appropriate health services.