Health Justice

A report released today confirms widespread Indigenous-specific racism in BC's health care system. The full report and it's 24 recommendations for change are a crucial read for anyone working within or in relation to BC's health system, including the mental health and substance use system. We all have a role in eliminating racism.

A new initiative of BCAAFC and the Safespace Network - Indigenous people can anonymously report their experiences in the healthcare system.

Change is possible: a pilot program in Toronto is leading an Indigenous-led crisis response to replace armed police involvement in many mental health wellness checks. ... in cases where police are not necessary, culturally-trained clinicians from Native Child and other Indigenous organizations will carry out wellness checks, and deal with mental health crises, domestic violence and other disputes.

While officials still need to count some votes from the October 24, 2020 provincial election, it’s clear that the NDP will form a majority government for BC. What does that mean for mental health law?

Experts and advocates are hoping the next B.C. government will focus on expanding preventative mental health-care services and overhauling the aging and 'outdated' Mental Health Act to protect individual dignity in care...."Part of the public conversation is really related to the idea that the solution to these social problems is to remove people’s rights and force them out and into less visible places, instead of really changing those systems, said Milne.