On November 30th, 2020 we saw the long awaited release of the In Plain Sight Report of Indigenous-specific racism and discrimination in BC Health Care. Within the report there are 11 findings which validate what Indigenous communities have known for far too long: BC’s health care system is racist. With experiences collected from more than 9000 people, this report also includes 24 recommendations for the B.C. government to implement that will create safer, more accessible, and more culturally competent health care for all. CBRC fully supports these recommendations and believe that if implemented, they will have a positive impact for our communities, and improve the way people in British Columbia access healthcare.

In July, we began working with Two-Spirit and Indigenous queer and trans folks to share their experiences within BC’s healthcare system. We learned that members from this community were eager to have their experiences be a part of this important investigation.

Though the final report highlights the racism and discrimination, it also fails to acknowledge the unique experiences among Two-Spirit and Indigenous queer and trans folks, who face additional barriers and prejudice due to their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. This lack of visibility must be challenged by pushing for a more intersectional approach to addressing stigma and discrimination - within the healthcare system and beyond.

It is not lost on us that Two-Spirit and Indigenous queer and trans experiences, while called upon for this study, were not directly reflected in this final report due to limited data and responses from folks with these lived experiences. CBRC is committed to working with Two-Spirit and Indigenous queer and trans folks to ensure that their experiences and voices are meaningfully included in ongoing conversations and initiatives to address racism in healthcare.

To read the report summary please click HERE.

To read the full report please click HERE.