Our Commitment

Cultural safety is a concept that emerged primarily in the context of healthcare and education for Indigenous peoples, emphasizing the need for environments that respect and uphold the cultural identities and practices of these communities. It extends beyond mere cultural awareness, which often focuses on knowledge about different cultures, to actively recognizing and addressing power imbalances and historical injustices that affect Indigenous populations. Cultural safety involves creating spaces where Indigenous individuals feel secure and valued, allowing them to express their cultural identity without fear of discrimination or marginalization. This approach fosters respectful relationships and promotes an understanding that cultural identity significantly influences people’s health and wellbeing, thereby ensuring that services are not only culturally competent but are also sensitive and responsive to the needs of Indigenous communities. 

Cultural humility is an approach that encourages individuals to engage in self-reflection and lifelong learning regarding their own cultural identities and biases, particularly in interactions with Indigenous populations and other diverse groups. Unlike traditional concepts of cultural competence, which can imply a fixed set of skills or knowledge about different cultures, cultural humility recognizes that understanding is an ongoing process shaped by personal experiences and interactions. It emphasizes the importance of listening to and valuing the voices and experiences of Indigenous peoples, acknowledging their expertise in their own cultural practices and histories. By adopting a stance of openness, curiosity, and respect, cultural humility enables professionals to build meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities, fostering collaboration and advocacy that honor their rights, dignity, and cultural heritage. This perspective not only enhances communication and understanding but also contributes to more equitable and supportive environments for all individuals. 

Systemic racism refers to the entrenched and pervasive discriminatory practices, policies, and institutional structures that perpetuate inequalities and disadvantages for racial and ethnic minorities, particularly Indigenous peoples. Unlike overt racism, which manifests through individual actions or explicit prejudices, systemic racism operates at a structural level, influencing various systems such as education, healthcare, criminal justice, and employment. It encompasses the historical and societal contexts that have marginalized certain groups, often resulting in disparities in access to resources, opportunities, and treatment. Systemic racism is often reinforced by policies that may appear neutral on the surface but disproportionately affect marginalized communities. Understanding systemic racism is crucial for addressing the root causes of inequality and implementing meaningful reforms that promote justice, equity, and cultural safety for Indigenous populations and other affected groups.