[Ottawa, ON, November 22, 2023] –The Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA) is pleased to announce the establishment of the first-ever Indigenous Chiropractic Caucus (ICC), a ground-breaking initiative with the aim to foster collaboration and advance healthcare access within Indigenous communities across the nation. The official signing ceremony for the caucus will take place on Monday, November 27, 2023 at 3:30 on Parliament Hill in room 250 of the Sir John A MacDonald building.
“In keeping with the Mi’kmaq philosophy of Etuaptmumk, or two-eyed seeing, we combine the best of our Indigenous teachings and the strengths of our chiropractic profession to advocate for the health of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Our vision is to increase access to high quality, holistic and culturally relevant musculoskeletal care,” says Dr. Jennifer Ward, co-chair for the ICC.
“At the beginning of any journey, we look hopeful as to where our path will take us. It is with this hope as Indigenous Chiropractors, we begin to travel this road together in partnership with the CCA to bring healing to our communities. I thank the Creator for leading us to this path and going with us as we work towards truth and reconciliation,” says Dr. David Peeace, co-chair for the ICC.
The Indigenous Chiropractic Caucus will support the implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action within the chiropractic profession. We acknowledge that the current state of health is a direct result of previous policies, and we commit ourselves to work in the spirit of reconciliation by mentoring Indigenous chiropractic students and providing a forum for professional development to support Indigenous chiropractors. Recognizing the importance of culturally sensitive and community-specific healthcare and healing approaches, this caucus seeks to create a platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration between Indigenous communities, chiropractors, and policymakers.
“This initiative exemplifies chiropractors’ dedication to fostering inclusive and culturally sensitive healthcare solutions. By uniting the strengths of Indigenous communities and chiropractors, we embark upon a journey that respects tradition, embraces innovation, and addresses healthcare disparities. The Indigenous Chiropractic Caucus aligns perfectly with our mission to promote well-being and equitable access to healthcare for all,” said Dr. Ayla Azad, DC, CCA CEO.
The formation of this caucus is the result of consultations with Indigenous chiropractors who share a common vision of enhancing the health outcomes of Indigenous communities. By facilitating an inclusive and respectful environment, the Indigenous Chiropractic Caucus aims to address health disparities and promote best practices that are in harmony with Indigenous traditions and values.
The signing ceremony on Parliament Hill will be attended by esteemed representatives from Indigenous communities, chiropractic associations, healthcare organizations, and governmental bodies. This signing ceremony symbolizes the commitment to a partnership that respects Indigenous sovereignty, promotes health equity, and recognizes the value of traditional knowledge in contemporary healthcare.
The ceremony will include addresses by a prominent Indigenous elder, Elder Claudette Commanda, chiropractic professionals, and MP Lori Idlout, Member of Parliament for Nunavut and a member of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs.
Following the signing ceremony, there will be a celebratory reception for participants to engage in discussions, network, and foster connections that will drive the goals of the Indigenous Chiropractic Caucus.
We extend our invitation to all interested parties, including media representatives, to join us in commemorating this momentous occasion. Your coverage of this event will play a pivotal role in raising awareness about the importance of culturally appropriate healthcare and the valuable contributions of Indigenous communities and chiropractic care.
About the Canadian Chiropractic Association
The Canadian Chiropractic Association represents Doctors of Chiropractic across Canada who treat and manage musculoskeletal conditions that impact the health of millions of Canadians. Every year, at least 4.7 million Canadians rely on chiropractors to help them manage the serious burden of musculoskeletal pain and disease. As one of Canada’s largest primary contact health care professions, chiropractors provide evidence-based, non-invasive, drug-free manual therapies.
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Media Contact:
Madison Ciponi, Manager of Government Relations, Canadian Chiropractic Association