By: Dr. Holly Prince
Boozhoo. Wiiji’iwe nindizhinikaaz, Opwaagaanisiniing niindoonjibaa, Thunder Bay nindaa. Makwa dodem. My English name is Holly Prince. I am an Anishinaabekwe and a member of Opwaagaanisiniing, located in Northwestern Ontario. I am an Indigenous scholar and social worker, and have been working in the space of caregiving, dying and death for over 20 years.
Caring for Indigenous Peoples facing life-changing illnesses is a profound responsibility that goes beyond just treating their physical symptoms. It requires a deep understanding of their emotional, social and spiritual needs. Health care settings must prioritize cultural safety and humility, valuing Indigenous Knowledges equally with westernized practices.
For many Indigenous communities, dying is not seen as a medical event, but rather a spiritual journey back to the Spirit World. It is a collective experience in which families and communities come together to support one another in decision-making and care. Community and cultural practices play a significant role in this journey. Cultural safety creates an environment that honours the diversity of Indigenous Knowledges, experiences and practices regarding caregiving, dying and death. It translates into a care setting that embraces a community-centred approach, helps people connect to their land and language, and respects cultural protocols surrounding dying, death, and grieving. This is seen in care plans that are wholistic, aligned with cultural and community practices, and incorporate traditional ceremonies and healing practices.
Cultural humility provides a framework for care providers to engage in critical self-reflection, build trust and address health inequities experienced by Indigenous Peoples. This is reflected in caregivers’ commitment to understanding the ongoing impacts of colonization on Indigenous Peoples, entering spaces with humility and respect, and listening actively to ensure individuals feel empowered and supported.
In conclusion, cultural safety and humility not only honour Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing but also enrich the overall experience for families and communities. By working collaboratively and respectfully, we can help ensure that the journey back to the Spirit world for Indigenous Peoples and their family and community caregivers is met with care, dignity, and deep respect.
Miigwetch.
